With one of the richest histories of any major watch brand, Seiko has countless iconic models from its past to refer to. In particular, they have always been on the cutting edge of stopwatch and chronograph technology, being one of the first brands to manufacture automatic chronographs in 1969. Their new line of solar chronographs draws from some of these first precision chronographs, mixing vintage style with modern technology.
Measuring 39mm x 45mm x 13.5mm the solar chronographs are sized like their ‘60s forefathers, making for comfortable all-day watches. The solid steel cases feature a compact barrel design with brushed and polished surfaces. Surrounding the sapphire crystal is a large external tachymeter with a beveled edge for a cool, three-dimensional look. The triple-register dial is pure ‘60s with applied markers on a textured surface. Sunlight is cleverly collected through the sub-dials to power the watches.
Inside of the Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph is the Caliber V192. Powered by light, this movement features a ⅕ second sweeping chronograph hand, 60-minute counter, 24-hour hand, power level indicator, as well a power reserve of 6 months.
- Case: Stainless steel
- Dial: White Panda
- Movement: Seiko Caliber V192
- Complications: Chronograph, Date
- Lens: Sapphire
- Strap: Bracelet
- Water Res.: 100M
- Diameter: 39mm
- Length: 45mm
- Thickness: 13.5mm
- Lug Width: 20mm
Founded in 1881, Seiko began as a humble jewelry and clock store and has since grown into the watchmaking juggernaut that it is today. If the technology for a watch they wanted to make didn’t exist, Seiko made it happen under their own roof. Since Seiko is vertically integrated, they can customize nearly any part of their watches to their own design and specs in house. From the first true dive watch, to one of the first automatic chronographs, and completely new ways of powering a watch like Spring Drive, Seiko’s list of horological achievements is lengthy. They’ve done everything all the way down to creating their own lab-grown and regulated quartz crystals for timekeeping.