Seiko Brand 100th Anniversary Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Limited Edition SRQ049
Seiko Brand 100th Anniversary Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph Limited Edition. Born of perseverance and hope, the history of the Seiko brand name goes back to the aftermath of the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, when K. Hattori & Co., determined to rebuild, released its 1924 first Seiko branded wristwatch. Part of a special group of limited editions commemorating this pivotal moment, this exceptional timepiece is available only in a controlled-production run of 1,000, with the serial number engraved on each caseback. Based on Seiko’s 1972 Speedtimer precision chronograph, nicknamed “Panda” by fans, and developed with added style and function to appeal to young motorsports enthusiasts, this superbly tailored timepiece features a newly designed thinner case curved to seamlessly connect to the bracelet for enhanced sport elegance and wearing comfort. Providing chronograph measurement of up to 30 minutes of elapsed time in 1/8-second increments, the proprietary caliber 8R48 34-jewel automatic movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of approximately 45 hours and manual winding capability. The movement includes a column wheel and vertical clutch mechanism allowing for smooth, stutter-free movement of the chronograph hand while providing long-term efficiency, reducing wear and tear and maintaining the power reserve better during chronograph operation. For reliable timing, the three-pointed hammer system ensures that all hands return to zero instantly and in perfect synchronization when the re-set pusher is pressed. Framed by a tachymeter scale, the charcoal-gray dial inspired, like the orange chronograph hand, by the original “Panda” colors, features a date calendar and LumiBrite hands and markers. Adding a note of tailored luxury, the multi-row bracelet provides a sleek, comfortable fit, while the additional black calf leather strap offers versatile wear. Crafted of stainless steel with a super-hard coating, this extraordinary timepiece also features a dual-curved anti-reflective sapphire crystal, screwdown caseback, and tri-fold push button release clasp. Packaged in a Limited Edition collectors’ box. 10 bar, 100M Water Resistant
Information:
New: Seiko Brand 100th Anniversary Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Limited Edition SRQ049
Reference: SRQ049
Limited: 1000 Pieces
MSRP: $2700
Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet and leather strap
Case Size: 42mm x 14.6mm Thickness 49.5mm Lug to Lug
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: Stainless Steel
Movement: 8R48 - Automatic
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, Chronograph
Box and Papers: Box and Papers
Crystal: Sapphire
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition: New
History of Seiko Watches
Seiko's history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a watch shop in Tokyo. In 1892, he established Seikosha, a factory for producing wall clocks. The company quickly progressed, creating Japan's first wristwatch, the Laurel, in 1913. Despite setbacks like the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Seiko persevered, launching its first watch under the Seiko brand name in 1924.
The post-World War II era saw Seiko's rapid growth and innovation. They introduced Japan's first automatic wristwatch in 1956 and launched the prestigious Grand Seiko line in 1960. Seiko achieved international recognition for accuracy in 1968, winning a Geneva Observatory competition.
The company made a name for its divers in 1965 with the introduction of their first professional dive watch, the 62MAS. This was followed by the iconic 6159-7001 in 1968, which was water-resistant to 300 meters. Seiko gained international recognition in 1975 with the release of the 6159-7010, nicknamed the "Tuna Can" due to its distinctive case shape. In 1969, they revolutionized the industry with the Astron, the world's first quartz wristwatch, ushering a new era of watchmaking that would send waves across the industry through the 70s and 80s. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global watchmaking giant, Seiko's history is characterized by resilience, technological advancement, and a commitment to precision.
