Seiko’s trio of Speedtimer x Datsun limited editions—SPB517, SRQ057, and SSC957—pays tribute to the iconic 1971 East African Safari Rally win, with each model channeling the spirit of the Datsun 240Z in distinct ways. Namely, a time-only, a mechanical chronograph and a solar chronograph, the trio provide offers at different price points.
Press release with commentary in italics.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Datsun 240Z
Commentary
The SPB517 ($1,150) presents a time-and-date layout powered by the automatic 6R55 movement, featuring an internal rotating bezel and classic Datsun branding. The SRQ057 ($3,200) is the mechanical flagship, housing the 8R48 chronograph movement with vertical clutch and column wheel, limited to 500 pieces. Meanwhile, the SSC957 ($1,000) offers a solar-powered chronograph with a six-month power reserve, packaged in a 41.4mm case and accented by a two-tone bracelet reminiscent of the car’s rally livery. (Prices in USD)
The collection focuses on design fidelity and brand nostalgia, differentiated across price and functionality. The SPB517 delivers balanced wearability with understated motorsport cues, while the SRQ057 targets collectors wanting a mechanical chronograph and don’t mind the thickness. The SSC957, though now closer in price to the SPB517, remains the stylistic outlier—its solar movement and bold aesthetic two-tone bracelet; is most likely to appeal to fans of the 240Z legacy.
Press release
The Datsun 240Z and Prospex Speedtimer
New collaboration watches honor the shared spirit and achievements of icons from the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The 1960s marked a pivotal era for Seiko, with notable advances in timekeeping through involvement in global sporting events. These competitions demanded reliable accuracy down to one-hundredth of a second, inspiring Seiko to push horological boundaries. In 1969, Seiko launched the Speedtimer—the world’s first automatic chronograph featuring both a vertical clutch and a column wheel, greatly improving the precision of elapsed time measurement.
In the same year, the Datsun 240Z debuted and quickly became a hit in Japan and North America. To showcase its capabilities as a true sports car, the 240Z entered international rally competitions. Sharing the same pioneering spirit, Seiko supported Datsun in motorsport efforts throughout the early 1970s. In 1971, the Seiko-branded Datsun 240Z, wearing No. 11, triumphantly completed the grueling 6,200-kilometer East African Safari Rally—one of the world’s toughest races.
Today, Seiko introduces three limited-edition Speedtimer models inspired by that legacy: SPB517, SRQ057, and SSC957. These tribute pieces draw on various Seiko technologies and reflect the shared ethos of the Datsun 240Z and Seiko during that iconic era. Additionally, three new models join the main Prospex Speedtimer series, reinforcing the automotive spirit that defines the collection’s identity.
Each collaboration watch channels the red-and-black chassis of the 240Z and features unique Datsun branding. The SPB517, powered by Caliber 6R55, displays the original logo with a red circle and blue rectangle. The SRQ057, equipped with Caliber 8R48, uses Datsun’s cursive script emblem. Meanwhile, the SSC957—featuring the solar-powered Caliber V192—sports block-style Datsun lettering. Case backs further differentiate the models, with the SPB517 bearing the vintage brand logo, the SRQ057 showing a rally emblem, and the SSC957 showcasing a custom illustration of the 240Z.
Functions Inspired by Motorsports Aesthetics
The SPB517 includes a countdown timer function ideal for motorsport timing—whether tracking pit stop durations or pre-race intervals. The SRQ057 adds a tachymeter bezel with a speed range of 50–60 km/h, nodding to the original 1969 Speedtimer. The 8R48 movement inside it also boasts a column wheel and vertical clutch, enhancing precision and durability, while MEMS technology improves its escapement’s stability. Chronograph counters at 9 and 6 o’clock display 30-minute and 12-hour intervals respectively.
The SSC957 delivers a 60-minute chronograph function and 24-hour subdial, and when fully charged, operates for up to six months without light. Its leather strap is sourced from certified Leather Working Group tanneries, with water-resistant lining and perforations for a sportier look. The SPB517 and SRQ057 also feature similarly refined strap construction.
All three watches will be available starting September 2025 at Seiko boutiques and select global retail partners. Editions are capped at 2,500 units for SPB517, 500 for SRQ057, and 4,000 for SSC957.
