Sometimes the best collaborations are the ones that actually make historical sense. While we’ve all grown tired of forced brand collabs that feel more like marketing exercises, Seiko’s new Speedtimer x Datsun 240Z collection tells a real story that dates back over 50 years. In 1971, a Seiko-sponsored Datsun 240Z with No. 11 on its doors conquered the brutal East African Safari Rally, which is widely considered one of the toughest motorsport events ever conceived. Now, three limited-edition Speedtimers pay homage to that victory and the shared engineering excellence that made it possible.
When Japan Ruled Racing and Timekeeping
1969 was a pivotal year for both companies. Seiko introduced the world’s first automatic chronograph with both a vertical clutch and column wheel. That watch? The now iconic Speedtimer. During that same time, Datsun was busy launching the 240Z, which was more than just an affordable sports car. It really helped redefine what enthusiasts could expect from Japanese engineering. Both represented breakthrough thinking: precision timing and reliable performance at accessible prices.
The racing connection wasn’t just ceremonial. That 1971 Safari Rally victory came after 6,200 kilometers of punishing African terrain, including dust, heat, wildlife crossings, and roads that barely qualified as roads.
Three Watches, Three Different Approaches
Rather than creating one commemorative piece, Seiko has developed three distinct models that showcase different aspects of their current capabilities while honoring the Datsun heritage.
The SPB517 represents something new for the Speedtimer lineup, it’s a time-and-date model rather than a chronograph. At 39.5mm x 12mm, it’s the most wearable of the trio and features an internal countdown bezel operated by a secondary crown. The dial carries the classic Datsun logo in blue and red, while the typography on the bezel references the 240Z’s instrument cluster. Limited to 2,500 pieces at $1,150, it powered by Seiko’s 6R55 automatic with 72 hours of power reserve.
The SRQ057 is the technical flagship, featuring Seiko’s excellent 8R48 automatic chronograph movement with column wheel and vertical clutch. What sets this apart from other Speedtimers is the external tachymeter bezel. It’s a first for the modern collection and a direct nod to the original 1969 Speedtimer. The 42mm black-coated case houses a dual-register chronograph with 30-minute and 12-hour counters, while the cursive Datsun script adds period-correct style. Only 500 pieces will be made, priced at $3,200.
The SSC957 takes the solar route, powered by Seiko’s V192 movement that provides up to six months of runtime on a full charge. The 41.4mm case features a two-tone bracelet with black center links that echo the 240Z’s racing livery. At $1,000 for 4,000 pieces, it’s the definitely the most accessible entry point into the collection.
Details That Matter
Each watch incorporates different versions of Datsun branding – the block logo, the cursive script, and the vintage circular emblem. The typography throughout references the 240Z’s instrument cluster, while the red, black, and white color scheme directly mirrors the rally car’s livery. Even the leather straps are sourced from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries.
The casebacks also tell their own stories here: the SPB517 features the period-correct Datsun logo, the SRQ057 carries the rally car emblem, and the SSC957 showcases a custom illustration of the 240Z created specifically for this collaboration.
Spec Sheet
SPB517
Case Size: 39.5mm x 12mm
Movement: Caliber 6R55 automatic
Power Reserve: 72 hours
Water Resistance: 200m
Limited Edition: 2,500 pieces
Price: $1,150
SRQ057
Case Size: 42mm x 14.6mm
Movement: Caliber 8R48 automatic chronograph
Power Reserve: 45 hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Limited Edition: 500 pieces
Price: $3,200
SSC957
Case Size: 41.4mm x 13mm
Movement: Caliber V192 solar chronograph
Power Reserve: 6 months (fully charged)
Water Resistance: 100m
Limited Edition: 4,000 pieces
Price: $1,000
Pricing & Availability
All three Datsun collaboration models will be available starting September 2025 through Seiko boutiques and select retailers worldwide. Given the limited production numbers (and the fact that interest in vintage Japanese cars is at an all time high), we expect these to be a hot commodity.
Recap
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer x Datsun 240Z Collection
Seiko honors their historic motorsport partnership with Datsun through three limited-edition Speedtimers featuring period-correct branding, rally-inspired colorways, and different movements ranging from mechanical automatic to solar chronograph, celebrating the 1971 East African Safari Rally victory that linked both brands in racing history.
