Seiko’s latest release is more than a set of watches. It’s a reunion of two Japanese legends — one from motorsport, the other from watchmaking — and a celebration of their shared DNA: precision, innovation, and the will to win.
Introducing the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Datsun 240Z Limited Editions — timepieces that pay tribute to the grit and glory of the 1970s, wrapped in modern engineering and timeless design.
The year 1969 was monumental for both brands.
Seiko launched the original Speedtimer — the world’s first automatic chronograph to feature both a vertical clutch and a column wheel, setting a new benchmark in mechanical timekeeping.
Datsun unveiled the 240Z — a sleek, affordable sports car that would become a worldwide sensation, from Tokyo to California.
Their paths crossed again just two years later. In 1971, the Datsun 240Z — bearing the Seiko logo and the number 11 — stormed across 6,200 kilometres of unforgiving terrain in the East African Safari Rally and emerged victorious. It was one of the toughest races on Earth, and the 240Z conquered it in style.
This year’s collaboration honours that shared legacy of courage, precision, and pursuit of excellence.
Before we get to the watches, a bit of history.
The name “Datsun” was born in 1932 at DAT Jidosha Seizo, the company that would eventually become Nissan Motor. Originally, “DAT” was an acronym for the surnames of three founding investors. When a new, smaller model was produced, it was dubbed “DATSON” — meaning the “son of DAT.” But in Japanese, the word “son” sounds like “loss,” so the name was quickly changed to DATSUN, with “sun” symbolising energy and hope. A fitting name for a brand that would rise to global acclaim.
There are new limited-edition Seiko Prospex Speedtimer models in this collaboration. Each one channels the spirit of the Datsun 240Z — not just in looks, but in attitude.
Limited to 2,500 pieces
This is the standout piece in the line-up, carrying strong rally vibes and detailed nods to the 240Z.
Dial: Finished in matte black to reduce reflection — a nod to the anti-glare paint used on rally cars. Red accents on the seconds hand and inner ring improve visibility under pressure.
Numerals: The Arabic font is inspired directly by the 240Z’s dashboard.
Logo: The “DATSUN” logo is proudly placed at 6 o’clock.
Functionality: A countdown timer, operated via the 4 o’clock crown, allows you to measure intervals — from race starts to pit stop durations.
Strap: Crafted from leather sourced from Leather Working Group (LWG)-certified tanneries. The inner seams are lined to protect against moisture and sweat — practical and sustainable.
Case Back: Features the iconic Datsun emblem, with “LIMITED EDITION” and an individual serial number engraved.
These two models offer alternative colourways while keeping the same robust engine and vintage racing aesthetic.
SPB513J1: A crisp grey-white dial.
SPB515J1: A moody black-grey dial.
Both feature:
Movement: The in-house 6R55 automatic calibre, accurate to -15/+25 seconds per day and offering a 72-hour power reserve. Notably, this is the slimmest 6R movement Seiko has ever produced, at just 11.95mm thick.
Case: The sleek case shape traces back to Seiko’s 1972 “Panda” chronograph. Finished with a super-hard coating for durability.
Glass: Curved sapphire with anti-reflective coating.
Size: A very wearable 39.5mm diameter, with 200 metres of water resistance.
Legibility: Strong Lumibrite on the reference triangle ensures the countdown timer is visible even at night.
The only solar-powered model in the line-up, and a strong contender for the most visually striking.
Dial: Features the bold “DATSUN” block lettering from the 240Z’s steering wheel, positioned at 12 o’clock.
Bezel: Bi-colour aluminium tachymeter, modelled after the Speedtimer archives. A true collector’s detail.
Font: Again, the numerals mirror the 240Z’s dashboard layout.
Bracelet: Brushed metal with a central black strip — a deliberate homage to the 240Z’s distinctive bonnet design.
Case Back: Decorated with an original illustration of the rally-winning Datsun 240Z. “LIMITED EDITION” and the unique serial number are also engraved.
Limited to 500 pieces
Calibre 8R48
Dial: The “Datsun” name appears in elegant cursive script at 12 o’clock — a subtle yet stylish tribute to the brand’s heritage. A tachymeter scale on the outer bezel adds functionality and a bold, sporty edge.
Bezel: Designed to measure speeds from 50 km/h to 60 km/h, the scale mirrors the layout of the original 1969 Speedtimer — a direct nod to the model that started it all.
Movement: Powered by the in-house 8R48 calibre, a high-performance automatic chronograph movement with vertical clutch and column wheel — ideal for smooth, precise timing.
Case: Crafted using Seiko’s latest manufacturing techniques, the case features a mix of polished and hairline finishes for a refined yet dynamic look. Hammer-shaped pushers offer excellent control over the stopwatch function — built for both aesthetics and operability.
Case Back: The back of the watch is engraved with the Datsun 240Z rally emblem, along with “LIMITED EDITION” and the individual serial number, underscoring its rarity and collectable value.
Seiko and Datsun didn’t just make machines — they made memories. These four watches tap directly into the heart of that history, not as a marketing exercise, but as a tribute to engineering brilliance and a fearless spirit.
Whether you’re a motorsport fan, a mechanical purist, or just someone who appreciates design with depth, the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer × Datsun 240Z collection offers more than timekeeping. It offers a piece of the journey.
And like all great journeys — it starts with precision, power, and a bit of risk.