Introducing Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph SBDL085 Review

Chronograph has been one of the most outstanding collections from Seiko and the Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph is among its kind. This Seiko’s model flaunts a charming and appealing sports watch with features to rely on. In this Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph review, we will take a closer look at what this lineup offers. 

The fact is Seiko is one of the earliest brands to make an automatic chronograph in the watchmaking industry. For that, Seiko presented a series of six appealing chronograph models under the Prospex lineup. It includes two mechanical models and four stunning solar-powered models that join the collection.

In this Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph review, we’re looking at the Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph with its color variations in white, black, and blue.

Heritage and Innovation

The Seiko Prospex collection is rooted in Seiko’s rich heritage of crafting reliable timepieces for professionals, particularly the chronograph models. Seiko boasts an extensive chronograph legacy, encompassing their inaugural manually wound variant dating back to 1964. 

Additionally, the renowned 6139 holds a special place as the premier automatic chronograph to make its debut in 1969. Coincidentally, this year also marked the introduction of the world’s pioneer quartz timepiece, the Seiko Astron.

The launch of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph charmingly revisits Seiko’s impressive legacy in sports timing. This Seiko Prospex Speedtimer review will show how Seiko showcases its contemporary watchmaking skills by creating chronographs that are not only aesthetically appealing but also focused on delivering exceptional performance. 

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Durable and Dandy Case Design

In this review, we’re looking at the Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph White Ref. SBDL085 and Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Black Ref. SBDL091.

The case of this Seiko Prospex Speedtimer is a key element that combines durability, functionality, and design. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the case is an embodiment of Seiko’s commitment to producing timepieces that can withstand the demands of various adventurous pursuits while maintaining a stylish appearance.

The case is made of 316L stainless steel, renowned for its corrosion resistance and robustness. The case vaguely resembles the shape of some of Seiko’s modern 62MAS reissues with its slightly rounded lug design. As a result, the watch radiates a bold design while being durable to withstand extreme conditions. 

Moving on to the dimensions, many say the watch is just perfect in terms of size. It is neither small nor big but just well-fitted on almost any wrist size. It is measured in a pleasing diameter of 39.5mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 45.4mm, and a thickness of only 13.3mm. It creates a nice wrist presence without feeling overwhelming while remaining extremely versatile.

Similar to numerous other models within Seiko’s Prospex lineup, the finishes on this timepiece are expertly carried out with meticulous attention to detail. Circular satin brushing adorns the upper part of the lugs, while the sides of the case boast a flawlessly polished surface.

Protruding at the side of the case are the push-in watch crown and chronograph pushers. With these features and the durability of the case, the watch bears a nice water resistance of up to 100m – allowing for a splendid exploration underwater.

Originally designed to track time, this Seiko Prospex Speedtimer accommodates an immovable tachymeter bezel with a sleek black finish. This bezel plays a vital role alongside the chronograph feature, aiding in the measurement of time elapsed over a set distance. 

Zooming into its finer details, the bezel gracefully descends, demarcating the indices and engraved tachymeter figures along the outer edge. This design element not only enhances the watch’s aesthetics but also introduces a captivating interplay of light from different perspectives due to the bezel’s polished surface.

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A Modern Look on Captivating Dial

Moving on to the dial, every Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph flaunts an appealing design. In this model, there is a variety of colors that wearers can choose from. The dial is available in black, white, blue, and sunburst blue.

As the name suggests, the dial always features chronograph registers which mostly come in three sub-dials – some have 4 sub-dials. The main characteristic of the dial is clarity and legibility, ensuring that vital information can be read easily in various conditions.

Moreover, the dial is also delicately finished in a sandblasted texture to give extra readability and a sense of aesthetics. The markers and hands are designed in bold and applied with luminescence for effortless reading in low-light environments or underwater settings. 

In that case, the brand also ensures that the markers have been well-applied with Seiko LumiBrite paint for an easy time-reading experience in the dark. Closely resembling the 1969 Seiko Speedtimer, the hour markers on the watch are meticulously affixed with square-shaped indicators, accompanying the generously sized sword-shaped hands.

The arrangement of sub-dials that facilitate the watch’s chronograph functionality is also worth attention here. The three sub-dials are positioned at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions with the 3 o’clock subdial displaying the 24-hour time, the 9 o’clock subdial showing the running seconds, and the 6 o’clock dedicated to dual functions: a 60-minute elapsed time counter and a power reserve indicator.

Significantly, at the 6 o’clock sub-dial, the power reserve display subtly acknowledges the realm of car racing by incorporating ‘F’ and ‘E’ markers. These symbols are frequently observed on fuel gauges in cars, serving as indicators for fuel quantity.

The dial is finalized with a gently curved sapphire glass that is resistant to scratches. This glass is coated with a substantial layer of anti-reflective material in a blue hue, guaranteeing exceptional clarity.

Read also: 5 Stylish Seiko Chronograph Watches for Every Occasion

Reliable Chronograph Movement

Beating inside the compact and well-constructed watch case, the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph comes with the reliable Seiko Cal. V192 solar-powered quartz chronograph movement. Boasting an environment-friendly energy, Seiko offers a power reserve for up to 6 months on a full charge. 

That number alone speaks more than just its longevity but also a high accuracy rating of approximately ±15 seconds a month. The wearer can easily operate the watch function through the chronograph pushers. The two pushers allow wearers to operate the 60-minute chronograph function.

Perfect and Comfortable Fit on the Wrist

The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph is not only renowned for its impressive functionality but also for its exceptional comfort on the wrist. The watch’s design and engineering have been carefully considered to ensure a comfortable fit for prolonged wear, making it an ideal companion for both active pursuits and daily activities.

As mentioned above, it comes in smallish dimensions but not small at 39mm in diameter and 45.5 lug-to-lug. The result is a comfortable fit for both men and women, including those with slender wrists.

In terms of operation ease, the chronograph pushers are easy to use and are positioned discreetly on the side of the watch. This placement aids Seiko in achieving a downward curve for the lugs. 

Completing the dandy look is a dynamic 20mm stainless steel bracelet featuring three links, fastened by robust end-links. The bracelet gracefully narrows to around 18mm at the meticulously crafted clasp.

Conclusion

The Seiko Prospex Speedmaster Chronograph encapsulates the essence of Seiko’s dedication to precision, innovation, and adventure. Not only does the watch bear a reliable performance but it also carries the essence of the vintage model that is represented here.

Beyond its technical prowess, this Seiko Prospex Speedmaster review shows that the watch’s design pays tribute to the spirit of exploration, appealing to those who seek both precision and adventure in their timepieces.

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