The unveiling of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph SRQ055 marks a significant moment for horology enthusiasts and motorsport aficionados alike. This new addition to Seiko’s 2025 lineup pays homage to the brand’s rich history in precision timing and motorsport, a legacy that began with the 1969 Seiko Speedtimer, the world’s first automatic chronograph featuring both a vertical clutch and a column wheel. This innovation set a new standard in timing precision and reliability.
In the same year, the Datsun 240Z made its debut, quickly establishing itself as a formidable competitor in global rallying. Notably, it clinched victory at the 1971 East African Safari Rally with Seiko as a proud sponsor. The shared legacy of these two icons in motorsport spirit and precision timing sets the stage for Seiko’s latest Speedtimer collection, which includes the Prospex Speedtimer SRQ055 as a regular-production model.
Design and Features: A Modern Take on Classic Elements
The SRQ055 maintains the robust aesthetic of its predecessors, such as the SRQ051 and SRQ053, while introducing updates that enhance practicality and visual balance. The watch features a stainless steel case that is water-resistant up to 100 meters, measuring 42mm in diameter and 14.6mm in thickness. This gives the watch a substantial presence, fitting for a mechanical sports chronograph. The case is topped with a dual-curved sapphire crystal, complete with an anti-reflective coating on the inner surface.
Despite its size, the SRQ055 offers a more compact appearance on the wrist. This is achieved by positioning the tachymeter scale externally on a fixed bezel, rather than on the dial’s inner chapter ring as seen in earlier models. This adjustment frees up dial space, resulting in a cleaner overall layout. The black dial adheres to a classic format, featuring a 30-minute counter at 9 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 6, and a running seconds sub-dial at 3. Applied indices and crisp printing ensure that time and elapsed measurements are easy to read, while the small round date aperture at 4:30 integrates seamlessly with the dial.
Technical Excellence: The Heart of the Speedtimer
At the core of the SRQ055 is Seiko’s calibre 8R48, a proven automatic chronograph movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of approximately 45 hours. This specification, while reliable, invites room for improvement. Like its 1969 predecessor, the 8R48 utilizes a vertical clutch and column wheel, with escapement parts benefiting from the MEMS technology (electroforming lithography), which enhances durability and precision.
A notable update is the bracelet, which has been refined with newly styled links that enhance both the aesthetic and comfort on the wrist compared to previous Speedtimer models. The SRQ055 is exclusively available with this stainless steel bracelet, featuring a three-fold clasp and push-button release. This contrasts with the Datsun-themed SRQ057, which comes with a rally-inspired leather strap, making the SRQ055 an appealing option for daily wear.
Pricing and Market Position
Priced at EUR 2,800, the new Speedtimer SRQ055 positions itself as a solid chronograph option from a brand renowned for its motorsport heritage and technical expertise. The watch’s design and features reflect a careful balance between tradition and modernity, appealing to both collectors and new enthusiasts.
For more detailed information, interested readers are encouraged to visit SeikoWatches.com.
“The SRQ055 is a testament to Seiko’s ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in watchmaking, seamlessly blending historical significance with contemporary advancements,” said a Seiko spokesperson.
As Seiko continues to evolve its product offerings, the Prospex Speedtimer SRQ055 stands out as a model that not only honors the brand’s storied past but also looks forward to future innovations in the world of horology.
