Introducing: Six New Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Models, Including Three With A Nod To Datsun
Seiko releases six new additions to the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer collection. Three of them celebrate the brand’s historic relationship with Datsun, the iconic Japanese carmaker that made waves with its affordable yet impressive 240Z sports car in 1969. The other three become part of the regular Speedtimer line.
The link between Seiko and Datsun runs deep. In 1971, a Datsun 240Z bearing the Seiko logo won the grueling East African Safari Rally. That motorsport connection now finds its way into three new limited editions, each infused with Datsun DNA. Let’s take a closer look at the six new Seiko Prospex Speedtimer references.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer and the Datsun 240Z
Three of these new watches directly honor the Datsun 240Z, a sports car that redefined affordable performance in 1969, the same year Seiko introduced the Speedtimer. All three limited editions are part of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer range and combine vintage design with modern execution. Each features Datsun branding and a special case back referencing the car’s racing heritage.
The SPB517 is a mechanical three-hander limited to 2,500 pieces. The SRQ057 is a high-spec automatic chronograph limited to just 500 pieces. The SSC957 is a solar-powered chronograph with a six-month autonomy, limited to 4,000 pieces.
If you like your Seikos with a bit of rally grit and racing pedigree, the Datsun editions may be for you.
SPB517: A Classic Seiko Prospex Speedtimer in Datsun colors
Among the three Datsun-themed models, the SPB517 strikes a balance between versatility and thematic personality. The relatively subdued styling and 39.5mm size give it versatility, while the red, black, and blue dial elements echo Datsun’s livery. The internal countdown bezel adds a subtle motorsports touch by featuring typography lifted from the Datsun 240Z’s clocks.
Inside ticks the Seiko 6R55 automatic movement with 72 hours of power reserve. The case has a 12mm profile and offers water resistance to 200 meters. The closed case back features the Datsun logo used in the 1970s, and the dial carries a vintage logo in blue and red.
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer is limited to 2,500 pieces and priced at €1,250. I have to admit, although I am usually no fan of co-branded watches, this one works for me. I like the little dash of color that the logo provides. The connection between Seiko and Datsun also feels genuine and significant enough to warrant these special editions. I also like the internal rotating bezel, a first for the Speedtimer collection.
SRQ057: The high-spec Seiko Prospex Speedtimer chronograph
The SRQ057 is the flagship of the new Datsun editions. It differs from existing higher-end Speedtimers in that it is the first with an external tachymeter bezel. Powering it is Seiko’s top-tier 8R48 automatic chronograph movement, complete with column wheel, vertical clutch, and a MEMS-manufactured escapement. The power reserve comes in at 45 hours. You get a dual-register chronograph with 30-minute and 12-hour counters, plus running seconds at 3 o’clock.
The 42mm blacked-out case brings a 14.6mm thickness, meaning this one has serious wrist presence. The tachymeter bezel is inspired by the original 1969 Speedtimer. The dial features Datsun’s cursive script logo and vintage-styled numerals reminiscent of the 240Z’s instrument panel. Note that the three watches carry different versions of the Datsun logo. I see what you did there, Seiko…gotta catch ‘em all, right?
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer is limited to just 500 pieces and priced at €3,500.
SSC957: Solar-powered Seiko Prospex Speedtimer
For those who prefer a lower-maintenance (and lower-cost) chrono, the SSC957 offers solar power with styling that still speaks to vintage racing heritage. It does feel a lot more modern, probably due to its dark PVD center links. With a 41.4mm by 13mm case, it feels a little more compact on the wrist than its mechanical chronograph siblings.
Powered by Seiko’s solar V192 caliber, it charges through the dial and promises up to six months of operation on a full charge. The case back features a custom illustration of the Datsun 240Z, and the Datsun logo on the dial adds a nice touch without feeling forced.
This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer reference is limited to 4,000 pieces and will retail for €1,050. I cannot say I am a huge fan of the two-tone bracelet, but I rather like the watch itself. Again, the color combo is subtle enough to be versatile while remaining distinctly vintage-racing-inspired. Quite cool, Seiko!
Regular-production Speedtimer models expand the lineup
Beyond the Datsun theme, Seiko also introduces three regular-production Seiko Prospex Speedtimer models — SPB513, SPB515, and SRQ055. These watches don’t carry automotive branding but still echo the 1970s vibe of the Speedtimer family.
The SPB513 (silver-white dial) and SPB515 (black dial) are technically identical to the SPB517. These, however, come on a 70s-style bracelet and feature ’70s-style orange accents. They’re priced at €1,000, offering a ton of value.
SRQ055 is a regular-production chronograph with the same movement and specs as the SRQ057 but with a more restrained, monochromatic design. It comes on a steel bracelet, priced at €2,800. I have to say, I quite like this one! But, then again, I tend to like simpler, base-model watches.
Final thoughts on the new Seiko Speedtimer releases
In a watch world dominated by very thin storytelling, I feel this co-branding actually makes sense. With the Speedtimer and the 240Z both stemming from 1969 and a shared history through initial sponsorship deals, I think these commemorative editions were almost overdue.
I think the co-branding is tastefully done too. The inspiration taken from the Datsun’s racing livery and typography simply works aesthetically. I also quite like that Seiko used different bits of Datsun branding on each of the three watches. I can imagine a hardcore Datsun aficionado might want to collect them all as a result.
Then we have the three regular-production models. I like that Seiko practiced restraint here, making them clean, simple, and to-the-point. Job well done!
What do you think of the new Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Datsun and non-Datsun editions? Let us know in the comments section below!
