The ties between motorsport and horology seem to be as strong as they’ve ever been. And the latest limited-edition release from Seiko in collaboration with Datsun highlights that. These watches commemorate the launch of both the Seiko Speedtimer and the Datsun branch of Nissan in 1969. But the ties between Seiko and Datsun don’t stop there. A Datsun 240Z rally car won the East African Safari Rally in 1971, an event sponsored by Seiko.
The new Seiko x Datsun collaboration includes three models, each offered in a range of configurations inspired by vintage motorsport design.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer ‘Maximum Precision’ 8R Mechanical Chronograph
The main release in this collaboration is the Prospex Speedtimer ‘Maximum Precision’ 8R Mechanical Chronograph. When the Speedtimer was launched it was the first automatic chronograph with a column wheel and vertical clutch. This watch has kept both of those components in its 8R48 mechanical calibre which has been housed in a 42mm case. As well as being a mechanical chronograph, this movement also features a date complication.
There are three choices of dial: monochrome, black with faux tritium lume and coloured hands, and black with a red rehaut graduated like the old racing chronographs. There are many design features here that pay homage to the racing chronographs of the ‘60s and ‘70s. The watch is available in steel on a steel five-link bracelet, or DLC-coated steel on a black leather strap—with the latter featuring colours on the tachymeter, chronograph and sub-dial hands taken directly from the original car. There is also a steel case with a three-link bracelet which has DLC-coated centre links. This model is limited to just 500 pieces worldwide.
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Compact 6R
The second model in this release is the Prospex Speedtimer Compact 6R, and it’s now the slimmest model in the 6R lineup at just 11.95mm. The case diameter is 39.5mm, but despite the smaller proportions, a water resistance of 200m has been achieved. These watches are true sport watches, built for not just sitting behind the steering wheel. The proportions of this model should be more manageable across a wide range of wrists compared to the chronograph.
This piece is powered by the 6R automatic calibre that’s accurate to -15/+25 seconds per day and features a power reserve of three days and a date complication. There is also an internal rotating bezel operated from a second crown at the 4 o’clock position. This model features many design cues from the original 240Z—from the colours of the dial and hands to the font being pulled from the original dashboard. Three dial colours are available, each with orange accents on the rehaut that pay tribute to that race-winning rally car. 2,500 pieces are available across the three configurations.
Seiko Prospex Solar Speedtimer x Datsun Fairlady Z
Joining the line-up is a third model: the Prospex Solar Speedtimer x Datsun Fairlady Z. This version is powered by Seiko’s V192 solar-charged movement, accurate to ±15 seconds per day with a six-month power reserve when fully charged. It captures the same spirit of performance and durability as its mechanical siblings, but in a more accessible, solar-powered package. Like the others, the design draws from the original Datsun 240Z rally car, with a distinctive colour scheme, dashboard-style fonts, and the DATSUN logo prominently displayed on the dial. A 3D emblem of the winning car is also engraved on the case back, along with the limited-edition number. This model is limited to 4,000 pieces worldwide.
