Introducing: The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC953 European Limited Edition
Around this time two years ago, Seiko introduced its first trio of Speedtimer Solar Chronograph models. The series combines vintage-inspired looks with modern technology at an affordable price, making it a tempting proposition that many watch enthusiasts embraced. Since then, the line has been slowly expanding with variations in different sizes and colorways. The newest member is a European Union-exclusive limited edition. The Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC953 comes with a dark red dial that perfectly matches the vibe of the previously released models. It’s time to check out the new Speedtimer SSC953!
It’s been almost a year since I wrote about the previous EU-exclusive Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC937. And just like last year, I almost fell into the trap of thinking the new model is a variation of the larger Speedtimer Solar Chronograph series that came out two years ago. With reference numbers for both sizes starting with SSC followed by numbers that are close together, it’s an easy mistake to make. But no, this new SSC953, which will be produced in a limited run of 2,400 pieces, is the smaller 39mm model. You could say it is the follow-up to last year’s light blue version.
The details of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC953
I also explained the differences between the larger 41.4mm and 39mm versions in last year’s article. In short, the case diameter is smaller, and the design of the hands and dial is different. Funnily enough, the lug-to-lug measurements of both models aren’t that different. This results from the skin-diver-like case of the smaller model with longer lugs. But let’s quickly go over the specs of this new SSC953. The watch features a 39mm stainless steel case with a 13.3mm thickness, a 45.5mm lug-to-lug, and a 100m water resistance rating. It has circular-brushed top surfaces and a high-polished case band.
The case features a fixed stainless steel bezel with an engraved tachymeter scale and black markings. You will find the crown and two chronograph pushers on the right side. From experience, I can say that these pushers are a joy to operate. They start, stop, and reset the chronograph with firm, reassuring clicks. Inside the case, we find a deep burgundy dial with black sub-dials and a set of applied hour markers. The ones at the cardinal points are different in size and filled with beige Lumibrite, which we also find in the sword-style hour and minute hands. The central chronograph hand and the small hand in the sub-dial at 6 o’clock are bright orange to contrast the dial.
The multifunctional black registers
If you are familiar with this series, you might know that the three sub-dials contain solar cells to charge the watch. Placed on top are transparent discs with white printing. The register at 9 o’clock is the running seconds, whereas the one at 3 o’clock serves as a 24-hour (AM/PM) indicator. Lastly, the register at 6 o’clock is the 60-minute chronograph register. The latter also serves as a power reserve indicator, with an “E” for empty and an “F” for fully charged. Located between 4 and 5 o’clock is the date aperture with a black date disc and white printing. It matches the overall aesthetic of the dial, so it blends in nicely.
Hidden behind the stainless steel case back is the solar-powered V192 movement that powers the watch. It has a power reserve of six months and is accurate to ±15 seconds per month. If the watch is almost at the end of its charge, the seconds hand will begin to jump in two-second intervals. A fun detail is that the solar cells will use any light source to store energy and power the watch. It is one of those details that defines the worry-free nature of the Speedtimer Solar Chronograph. The long power reserve and lack of costly servicing help make it a great daily wearer.
Final thoughts on the new Seiko Speedtimer SSC953
The new Speedtimer SSC953 has a stainless steel bracelet that tapers from 20mm at the end links to 18mm at the folding clasp. Additionally, the watch will come with a brown racing-style leather strap with a stainless steel pin buckle. Lastly, the 2,400 pieces will go on sale starting December 2024 for €860. What you get in return is more proof that the solar-powered Speedtimer series perfectly combines attractive looks with modern-day technical comfort. As a result, I do not doubt that all the stylish SSC953 will find its way to consumers quickly.
What do you think of the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC953? Don’t forget to let us know your thoughts on this release in the comments section.
