In 2021, Seiko introduced a new addition to the Prospex collection, the Speedtimer series, paying homage to the brand’s enduring legacy in sports timing. Today, a fresh creation emerges, showcasing a redesigned mechanical chronograph.
Drawing inspiration from heritage, this timepiece inherits key design elements from the 1972 Speedtimer chronograph. The flowing case design, multi-row bracelet, and a highly readable panda-style dial with an orange-tipped chronograph seconds hand all echo the aesthetic cues of the original creation. Seiko’s latest watchmaking technologies are employed to craft the new case and bracelet, featuring various hairline finishing techniques for a timeless and sophisticated appearance. The multi-row bracelet, composed of fine links, ensures both mobility and optimal support for the case, ensuring comfort on the wrist.
The heart of the new watch is the hand-assembled Caliber 8R48, a chronograph movement meticulously crafted by Seiko’s skilled watchmakers. With a vertical clutch and column wheel, this movement exemplifies the precision and reliability synonymous with the 8R series. Designed for robustness and ease of maintenance, the escapement utilizes MEMS technology for lightweight yet durable construction, enhancing stability and precision. The redesigned chronograph pushers with shorter stems further elevate the renowned operability of the Speedtimer.
Featuring three sub-dials and a date window between four and five o’clock positions, the chronograph seconds hand gracefully curves down toward the dial, ensuring close proximity to the markers and extending to the tachymeter scale at the edge. Lumibrite-coated minute and hour hands, along with outer indexes, enhance readability even in low-light conditions.
This masterpiece is released as a limited edition, commemorating Seiko’s 100th anniversary. Since its inception in 1881, Seiko has consistently embraced innovation, embodying founder Kintaro Hattori’s philosophy of staying “Always one step ahead of the rest.” The year 2024 marks the centennial celebration of the introduction of the first wristwatch with the “Seiko” brand on the dial in 1924.
In honor of this significant milestone, a limited-edition model mirrors the specifications of the redesigned mechanical chronograph but boasts a distinctive blue-grey dial with silver-white sub-dials. The watch, equipped with a metal bracelet, also provides the option to switch to a black leather strap, featuring enhanced stitching for increased durability.
For more information, please visit SeikoWatches.com.
