Precision in every aspect. A new Seiko Speedtimer chronograph.

Heritage and innovation in harmony. The new Prospex Speedtimer mechanical chronograph

Text: Press Photo: Seiko

The creation of the 1969 Seiko Speedtimer was an important landmark in the history of the chronograph. It was one of the world’s first automatic chronographs but its true significance lay in that fact that its movement, Caliber 6139, was the first to incorporate both a column wheel and a vertical clutch, two devices which made the measurement of elapsed time more precise and error-free than ever before. Today, a new creation pays homage to the 1969 original and showcases many of the most innovative aspects of Seiko’s watchmaking.

1969 Vintage Seiko Speedtimer automatic chronograph
The original 1969 Speedtimer was the first chronograph in the world to incorporate both a vertical clutch and a column wheel

Just like the 1969 original, every detail of this new creation’s design is tailored to reflect the precision required for elapsed time measurement at the highest level. The sub-dials and markers on the outer dial ring are in white so that they stand out prominently against the blue dial. The chronograph hands are in red to ensure that elapsed time can be read accurately at a glance.

SRQ043 Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Blue Dial 2022 calibre 8R46 6
Thanks to the dial’s vertical hairline finish, the dial turns from navy to vivid blue as the angle of vision changes.

The chronograph second hand is gently curved down towards the dial so that the tip of the hand is as close as possible to the dial’s markers and extends right to the tachymeter markings at the dial edge. The minute and hour hands and the edge of the indexes are generously coated with Lumibrite so that the time can be read even in low light conditions. The pushers are prominent and have a wide and flat upper surface area to facilitate secure and accurate operability. In every aspect, precision has inspired the design.

SRQ043 Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Blue Dial 2022 calibre 8R46 3
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph: SRQ043

The Caliber 8R Series. Designed for maximum precision in every aspect.

This new Speedtimer is powered by Caliber 8R46, which incorporates both vertical clutch and column wheel mechanisms, just like the 1969 original. The vertical clutch eliminates any shuddering or jumping of the hands and so enhances the measurement accuracy while the column wheel ensures the precise control of the chronograph operation. In addition, the movement incorporates Seiko’s unique three-pointed hammer which ensures that, when the re-set pusher is depressed, the hands return to zero instantly and in perfect synchronization. The escapement is lightweight and strong, thanks to the use of MEMS technology which enhances the stability of the watch’s precision.

SRQ043 Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Blue Dial 2022 calibre 8R46 2
Designed and hand assembled completely in-house by Seiko’s most skilled watchmakers, Caliber 8R46 ensures the highest possible levels of precision and durability

The watch is presented on a stainless steel bracelet that is specially designed and constructed for this series. Its thickness and weight, combined with the low center of gravity of the case, ensure stability and a high level of comfort on the wrist. In addition, the presentation case includes a leather strap whose stitching is specially designed to increase the strap’s durability.

This new Speedtimer chronograph will join the main Prospex collection and will be available from September 2022 at the Seiko Boutiques and selected retail partners worldwide.

Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph: SRQ043

Reference: SRQ043
Caliber 8R46, Automatic Chronograph
Column wheel and vertical clutch systems
Vibrations: 28,800 vibrations per hour (8 beats per second)
Power reserve: 45 hours
Jewels: 34

Specifications
Stainless steel case and bracelet with super-hard coating
Dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface
See-through screw case back
Water resistance: 10 bar
Magnetic resistance: 4,800 A/m
Diameter: 42.5mm. Thickness: 15.1mm
Three-fold clasp with push button release
Additional calf strap
Approximate recommended retail price in Europe: €3,200

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