The 1960s and 1970s marked a pivotal era of rapid industrial growth in Japan, a time when both the automotive and watchmaking industries surged forward in innovation and global influence. Seiko and the Datsun 240Z—two names originating from very different fields—are in fact deeply intertwined through this transformative period. Recently, Seiko unveiled three limited-edition Prospex Speedtimer watches inspired by the legendary Datsun 240Z. These timepieces not only pay tribute to the iconic sports car but also evoke the spirit of an era when Japanese manufacturing excellence began to shine on the world stage.
1969 was a landmark year, pivotal for both the watch and automotive worlds. On the automotive front, Nissan introduced its first Z-car, the Nissan Fairlady Z, which was rebadged as the Datsun 240Z for export markets such as the United States and Australia. The 240Z was a game changer—combining affordability, sleek styling, and impressive performance in a way that challenged the West’s long-held assumptions about Japanese cars. At the same time, Seiko launched the Speedtimer wristwatch, featuring the world’s first automatic chronograph movement equipped with a vertical clutch and column wheel—the revolutionary Calibre 6139. This groundbreaking mechanism elevated the accuracy and reliability of mechanical chronographs and quickly found applications in space missions and Formula 1 racing, cementing Seiko’s position as a leader in precision sports timing.
The Datsun 240Z was more than just a popular consumer vehicle—it was also a formidable competitor on the race track. It achieved numerous victories across motorsport events in the U.S., but none more legendary than its triumph in the grueling 1971 East African Safari Rally. Known as one of the toughest rally races globally, the East African Safari tested the limits of both man and machine with its unforgiving mix of rugged terrain, mud, jungle, and desert heat. A heavily modified 240Z emblazoned with a large Seiko logo defied the odds to take overall victory, forever linking the two brands in motorsport lore.
Decades later, Seiko and Datsun have reunited to celebrate this historic partnership by launching three limited-edition Prospex Speedtimer watches inspired by the 1971 Safari Rally-winning 240Z. Each watch incorporates distinct Seiko technologies and features different eras of Datsun branding, encapsulating the spirit of that momentous race and the golden age of Japanese motorsports.
The simplest model of the trio is the SPB517. Despite bearing the Speedtimer name, this watch isn’t a traditional chronograph. Instead, it offers a unique compressor-style countdown bezel, adjusted via a crown positioned at four o’clock. This bezel functions similarly to a diving watch’s timing bezel but is designed for countdown timing, such as signaling the start of a race. Measuring a comfortable 39.5mm in diameter and just 12mm thick, the SPB517 is the smallest and mechanically simplest of the three. Its black dial prominently features an early Datsun logo at six o’clock, mirrored on the case back, giving it a distinctly vintage motorsport aesthetic. It’s paired with a perforated rally-style leather strap, complete with a ‘Datsun’ cursive signature on the buckle—perfectly evoking the spirit of classic racing watches. Under the hood, the watch is powered by Seiko’s in-house 6R55 automatic movement, known for its robustness and reliability. It beats at a relaxed 3Hz frequency and offers a generous 72-hour power reserve, making it practical for everyday wear despite its nostalgic design cues.
Although it lacks a traditional chronograph function, the SPB517’s large Datsun branding and retro design recall the look of corporate or team watches from the 1960s and ’70s, reminiscent of vintage Rolex or TAG Heuer race team editions. This gives the watch a unique charm, bridging the worlds of corporate sponsorship and motorsport heritage in a way that feels authentic and unpretentious.
The second and most technically sophisticated watch is the SRQ057, a true mechanical chronograph powered by the modern Calibre 8R48. This movement inherits the vertical clutch and column wheel architecture from the original 1969 Speedtimer’s 6139 calibre but introduces contemporary advancements such as a MEMS-manufactured escapement, a higher 4Hz beat rate, and an extended 45-hour power reserve. The SRQ057’s black PVD-coated stainless steel case measures 42mm in diameter and 14.6mm thick. Despite its slightly larger size, the watch wears comfortably thanks to its subtly curved lugs. Vintage-style pump chronograph pushers protrude about 4mm, reinforcing its retro character. On the dial, a cursive Datsun logo sits at 12 o’clock, while the case back is engraved with a version of the Datsun logo inspired by the Safari Rally-winning car. The tachymeter scale on the bezel is calibrated specifically to measure speeds between 50 and 60 km/h, directly referencing the original Speedtimer’s focus on real-world racing speeds.
This model comes on a smooth black leather strap, which, while elegant, contrasts with the more rugged rally-style strap of the SPB517. Some fans have expressed a preference for a rally strap here as well, but this does not detract from the watch’s appeal. Among enthusiasts, the SRQ057 has emerged as the standout model of the series—most closely embodying the racing heritage that the collection celebrates. However, it is also the most expensive and limited, with only 1,000 pieces produced, adding to its desirability but potentially excluding some collectors.
While the third watch is less extensively covered, it is likely a solar-powered Speedtimer chronograph, continuing Seiko’s push for diverse technologies within the same family. Solar-powered watches offer convenience and environmental benefits by eliminating the need for battery changes or manual winding, appealing to a younger and more eco-conscious audience. This variant likely features Seiko’s V192 solar chronograph movement, providing precise timing functionality with the practicality of solar charging. Its design would naturally incorporate Datsun racing elements to maintain thematic consistency with the other two models. This trio thus represents a spectrum of mechanical and technological approaches: from traditional automatic to high-end mechanical chronograph to solar-powered quartz, catering to a broad range of tastes and needs.
The collaboration between Seiko and Datsun is no accident. In the late 1960s, Japan’s manufacturing sector was undergoing a profound transformation, shifting from imitation to innovation. The watch and automotive industries—two pillars of Japanese craftsmanship—reflected this evolution in parallel ways. Seiko had already established itself as a pioneer in sports timing, now serving as the official timekeeper for premier racing series such as Australia’s Supercars Championship. Meanwhile, the Datsun 240Z symbolized Japan’s breakthrough into the global sports car market, combining affordability and performance to reshape international perceptions of Japanese vehicles.
Beyond the technical aspects, the Datsun 240Z’s design philosophy had a lasting influence on sports car aesthetics worldwide. It skillfully blended the sleek lines of European sports cars with the muscle and power favored by American enthusiasts, creating a harmonious balance of style and substance. Subsequent Nissan Z models, including the widely acclaimed 350Z and 370Z, are direct descendants of the 240Z’s design legacy. Seiko’s new Speedtimer watches capture this design ethos through their minimalist yet purposeful dials, clear legibility, and motorsport-inspired details—marrying function with form much like the iconic car.
From a technical standpoint, the evolution of Seiko’s Speedtimer movements mirrors the broader advancements in mechanical chronograph technology. The 1969 Calibre 6139 was groundbreaking as the first automatic chronograph movement with a vertical clutch and column wheel, vastly improving timing precision and mechanical robustness. Today’s 8R48 calibre builds on that legacy with modern manufacturing techniques, including MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) components, delivering superior stability and accuracy. This continuous refinement exemplifies the Japanese manufacturing spirit: respecting tradition while pushing boundaries through innovation.
Beyond mechanics and design, these three watches carry profound cultural significance. They are not merely instruments for measuring time; they are storytellers, bridging automotive and horological passions. Enthusiasts who wear these pieces connect with the adrenaline and spirit of speed, while also appreciating the story of Japanese industry’s rise from humble beginnings to global leadership. For collectors, the watches offer a tangible link between two worlds of mechanical artistry, making them highly desirable keepsakes.
The release of these limited editions also reflects a broader trend in the modern watch market: a strong appetite for vintage-inspired pieces imbued with narrative depth. Today’s consumers seek more than just timekeeping; they want watches that convey history, identity, and emotion. The Seiko-Datsun collaboration masterfully meets this demand by blending technical excellence with rich storytelling and cultural resonance.
In conclusion, Seiko’s trio of Prospex Speedtimer Datsun 240Z limited editions serve as a heartfelt tribute to a golden era of Japanese innovation, embodying the synergy between automotive passion and horological craftsmanship. From the nostalgic charm of the SPB517 to the technically refined SRQ057, and the likely accessible solar-powered model, these watches offer something for every enthusiast. They remind us of an era when speed, design, and precision engineering converged to create legends on both wheels and wrists.
For car lovers, these watches evoke memories of the 240Z’s pioneering spirit and racing triumphs. For watch aficionados, they showcase Seiko’s mastery of mechanical timing and design heritage. For collectors, their limited production and rich backstory make them prized treasures. Together, they celebrate a timeless connection—a fusion of mechanical excellence and speed-driven passion that continues to inspire new generations.
As the worlds of automotive culture and mechanical watchmaking continue to intertwine, we can look forward to more collaborations that keep this legacy alive, marrying the art of precise timing with the thrill of the open road. These limited editions are not just watches; they are a celebration of history, innovation, and the enduring allure of speed.