In the East African Rally scene of the 1960s and 70s, a myriad of non-sporty vehicles like the Ford Zephyr, Volkswagen Beetle, and Peugeot 404 graced the podiums. However, it wasn’t until 1971 that the history was reshaped by the Datsun 240Z from Japan. Driven by Edgar Herrmann and Hans Schüller, this sports car repped the Datsun team and seized the overall championship in the grueling 6,200-kilometer journey that crossed Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Faced with rugged terrains and sweltering humidity, this powerhouse not only completed the race but also triumphed over renowned European racing brands such as Porsche and Ford. Adorning one side of the rear was a blue SEIKO logo, symbolizing that SEIKO was one of the official sponsors at the time, showcasing their high-precision timing technology throughout the competition.
The victory of the 240Z race car symbolizes the first time Japanese manufacturing took a dominant position in European motorsport, while also solidifying SEIKO’s status in the international sports timing arena. This connection has never been severed and has reemerged today in the form of a wristwatch.
When it comes to SEIKO’s history in event timing, one cannot overlook the launch of the first Speedtimer watch in 1969. This was the world’s first automatic chronograph to feature both a vertical clutch and a column wheel, paired with SEIKO’s own Cal. 6139 movement, which set a new standard for mechanical chronographs at the time. The Speedtimer not only innovated traditional technology but also marked SEIKO’s entry into the international sports event timing arena. It later became a signature piece for the brand’s participation in events like F1, athletics, and rally racing.
This time, the three limited edition pieces not only continue the legacy of the Speedtimer technology but also intricately replicate the racing aesthetic of the Datsun 240Z in their design. Special attention has been paid to incorporating numerous elements that pay tribute to the 240Z, particularly in the details of the dial and caseback. Each limited edition watch features Arabic numeral designs, inspired by the scale style found on the dashboard of the Datsun 240Z, further emphasizing the series’ racing heritage and vintage spirit.
The SPB517 watch is equipped with the 6R55 automatic movement, providing a power reserve of 72 hours. With a diameter of 39.5mm and a thickness of 12.0mm, it features a built-in countdown timer and showcases a striking red circle alongside the blue base and white Datsun rectangular logo. The leather strap, crafted by LWG-certified tanneries, boasts a perforated design that enhances its sporty vibe. The back of the watch is engraved with the Datsun brand logo from its earlier days, and this limited edition is capped at just 2,500 pieces globally, with a suggested retail price of approximately HKD 8,980.
The SRQ057 watch is a high-end automatic chronograph, featuring the 8R48 movement, which includes a vertical clutch and column wheel structure. The escapement is crafted using MEMS micro-electromechanical technology. With a 42mm black case and a tachymetric bezel, its red and white color scheme pays homage to the design of the original Speedtimer from 1969.
The watch face features the Datsun handwritten logo, with the chronograph positioned at 9 and 6 o’clock, reflecting a design that resonates with racing instrument configurations. The case back is engraved with the Datsun 240Z rally car emblem, and there are only 500 pieces available worldwide, priced at approximately HKD 24,800.
The SSC957 is a solar-powered chronograph wristwatch, featuring the V192 movement, which can run continuously for six months on a full charge. With a diameter of 41.4mm and a thickness of 13mm, the stainless steel case is accented by a red inner ring and a bi-metallic bracelet, reminiscent of the classic Datsun racing livery.
The watch dial features the Datsun logo in a neat typeface, while the case back is adorned with a specially designed illustration of the Datsun 240Z, adding a unique touch. This limited edition is restricted to just 4,000 pieces, with a suggested retail price of approximately HKD 7,780.
The three pieces share a consistent design language that highlights the Speedtimer series’ evolution in line with contemporary trends. With diverse configurations ranging from mechanical and chronograph to solar-powered movements, they blend retro and modern materials—like LWG-certified leather and two-tone metal bracelets—to showcase SEIKO’s skill in reinterpreting classic racing aesthetics into a contemporary wristwear statement. This collaboration is not just a design tribute; it also represents a reconnection of technology and culture.
The SEIKO Prospex Speedtimer × Datsun 240Z limited edition watch will officially be available starting September 2025 at SEIKO boutiques and select retailers worldwide, offering collectors who cherish motorsport culture and watch craftsmanship a timeless piece of wrist nostalgia.
