The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer collection pays homage to the brand's groundbreaking 1969 Speedtimer, a contender for the world's first serially produced automatic chronograph. This modern solar-powered reference, SSC813, channels the spirit of its ancestor through a classic "panda" dial configuration, yet utilizes the advanced Caliber V192 movement.
Its design has been lauded by enthusiasts for its carefully considered proportions, most notably its compact 39mm case diameter. The movement's solar charging capability offers six months of operation on a full charge, with the power-reserve indicator cleverly integrated into the six o'clock sub-dial.
Established in 1881 by Kintarō Hattori, Seiko is defined by its principle of complete vertical integration, manufacturing every single component of its timepieces in-house. They were the primary catalyst of the "Quartz Crisis" with the commercial release of the 1969 Astron—the world’s first quartz watch—the brand simultaneously advanced mechanical horology, developing one of the first automatic chronographs and pioneering high-frequency movements to challenge Swiss standards.
Seiko's relentless innovation continues with proprietary technologies like Spring Drive, which blends mechanical power with quartz precision. This technical mastery underpins Seiko's legacy in creating archetypal and exceptionally durable tool watches, particularly in the domain of professional diving.
Overall Grade: 9 / 10 (New Old Stock, Light Wear Due to Boutique Mishandling) Production: Purchased 2025 Contents: Full-set Genre: Chronograph
Size: 39mm Thickness: 13.3mm Lug width: 20mm
Case: Steel, mirrored sides, brushed lugs, light wear from boutique mishandling Bezel: Fixed tachymeter scale, black aluminum insert, brushed finish Dial: White, matte texture dial, applied lumed indices Hands: Syringe style hands, lumed
Crown: Steel pull down crown Crystal: Sapphire, domed, with anti-reflective coating Bracelet: Stainless Steel, three-link oyster-style bracelet Caseback: Solid, screwed down caseback Movement: Solar Quartz Chronograph Caliber: V192