Seiko × Datsun: When Speed Meets Time
In the early 1970s, Datsun’s 240Z was making waves on the rally circuit while Seiko was breaking new ground with the Speedtimer chronograph. Their paths crossed at the 1971 East African Safari Rally, where a Seiko-sponsored 240Z took victory — a moment that linked precision timekeeping with performance driving. Today, Seiko honours that shared legacy with three special watches inspired by the 240Z, each one bringing a piece of motorsport history to the wrist.
The Legacy Behind the Collaboration
The Datsun 240Z, launched in 1969, was a revolution. Affordable, fast, and beautifully styled, it brought sports car ownership within reach for enthusiasts around the world. Its rally successes, including multiple Safari Rally wins, cemented its reputation for durability and driving pleasure. At the same time, Seiko was breaking new ground with the Speedtimer — one of the world’s first automatic chronographs to feature both a vertical clutch and column wheel, designed to deliver race-ready precision. Seiko and Datsun weren’t just following trends; they were setting them. This collaboration draws on that pioneering spirit, translating the look and feel of a classic sports car into three distinct timepieces.
SPB517 – The Everyday Classic
The SPB517 is the most versatile of the three, built for everyday wear while quietly nodding to its motorsport roots. Its dial features vintage-style Arabic numerals and the iconic Datsun red-circle-and-blue-rectangle logo at six o’clock, a direct reference to the original car badge. The clean, legible display is powered by Seiko’s reliable Caliber 6R55 mechanical movement with a 72-hour power reserve. Finished with an LWG-certified leather strap, the SPB517 feels like the modern equivalent of a driver’s watch — understated, practical, and ready for the open road.
SRQ057 – The Motorsport Hero
For enthusiasts who want the closest connection to Seiko’s rally heritage, the SRQ057 is the centerpiece. Powered by the Caliber 8R48 mechanical chronograph movement, it uses a column wheel and vertical clutch for smooth, precise timing — a must for motorsport. The tachymeter bezel and sub-dials provide instant access to speed and elapsed time measurements, while the cursive “Datsun” script across the dial adds a subtle touch of nostalgia. This model is limited to just 500 pieces worldwide, making it a true collector’s item and the ultimate expression of Seiko’s racing pedigree.
SSC957 – The Modern Solar Choice
The SSC957 brings the collaboration firmly into the present, pairing heritage styling with solar-powered convenience. It runs on the Caliber V192 solar chronograph movement, which charges in any light and offers up to six months of power reserve. The bold block “Datsun” lettering on the dial contrasts beautifully against the clean sub-dial layout, while the stainless-steel bracelet adds everyday versatility. With 4,000 pieces available worldwide, it’s the perfect entry point into this special collection for those who want a watch that’s as low maintenance as it is meaningful.
Your Connection to the 240Z
This is more than just a watch collaboration. It’s a chance to wear a piece of Japanese design and motorsport history — to feel that spirit of innovation on your wrist every day. Whether you choose the classic SPB517, the performance-driven SRQ057, or the solar-powered SSC957, each model captures the thrill of the open road and the precision of Seiko’s watchmaking heritage. Which one speaks to you most? Explore the collection and find the model that brings the 240Z’s story to life for you.