Seiko Speedtimer Youngtimer - A future classic

The latest addition to the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer collection is a trio of solar quartz chronographs called the "Youngtimer", inspired by sports cars from the late 1980s and early 1990s. The Speedtimer is a staple in the Seiko collection; the original model with the "panda" dial from the 1960s is a particularly popular collector's item. One of the three newest Speedtimers bears a striking resemblance to this true Seiko classic…

"Youngtimer"

The term "Youngtimer" refers to cars produced roughly between the late 1980s and the mid-1990s. These cars are not yet considered classics, but they do have a strong retro appeal - they are future classics. The 1980s often harkened back to 1960s designs combined with pastel and neon colours. Seiko now combines these style elements with a modern movement and solar technology.

The Design of the Youngtimer 

In designing the Youngtimer, Seiko remained true to the mid-century motorsport aesthetic. The most striking element is a panda chronograph layout, so named because of the dark chronodials against a light background resembling a panda's face. This style has been associated with timekeeping in motorsports since the 1960s. By combining the panda style with new colours and textures, the Youngtimer distinguishes itself from the standard Speedtimer models.

With a 39mm stainless steel case, the highly wearable watch aligns with the original Speedtimers. Furthermore, the case features both brushed and polished surfaces, giving the watch a robust yet refined look. The watches feature a stainless steel bracelet with three rows of links that complement the case, creating a cohesive overall look. 
The steel bracelet can easily be replaced with a matching leather or rubber strap for an even more classic look.

Surprising Colour scheme

In addition to the traditional cream-black panda colour scheme (SSC961P1), the SSC965P1 (mint green) and SSC963P1 (soft pink) boast a surprisingly fresh colour that evokes the colour palette of the 1980s. This gives these watches a trendy, universal appeal with a nod to other classic chronographs like the Tudor Black Bay (with a pink dial) and the Omega Speedmaster, but at a much more accessible price.

History of the Prospex and Speedtimer

The Seiko Prospex line has been a staple for sports and dive watch enthusiasts for over 60 years. In 1969, Seiko introduced its first automatic chronograph, the Speedtimer.

Over the years, the Speedtimer family has received updates rooted in the brand's heritage. For example, in 2021, the Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph line (SPB513 and 515) was released, utilizing the same technology as Seiko's precision professional stopwatches from the 1960s. And in 2024, two exceptional Speedtimers (SRQ051 and SRQ053) were released, featuring the exceptionally stable 8R48 movement.

Solar Quartz Movement

The Prospex Speedtimer "Youngtimer" is powered by Seiko's Calibre V192 solar quartz chronograph movement. Once fully charged, the watch offers a power reserve of up to six months, even in complete darkness.

60-Minute Chronograph 

and Excellent Readability The chronograph function features a central seconds hand, a 60-minute chronograph counter, and a 24-hour display. The V192 movement offers a high degree of accuracy with minimal maintenance requirements, making this watch ideal for everyday use.

The contrasting subdials, applied hour markers, and clear minute markers with Lumibrite coating ensure that the time and chronograph remain clearly legible.

More Seiko chronographs at Watch.co.uk

Seiko chronographs are available on our site starting at around €200. View the full collection – including Youngtimers – on this page.