Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph SRQ055

The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Chronograph Ref. SRQ055 is a modern mechanical sports chronograph that pays homage to Seiko’s legendary Speedtimer heritage while offering contemporary performance and design. Inspired by Seiko’s early precision chronographs of the 1970s, the SRQ055 features a 42 mm stainless steel case with a fixed tachymeter bezel for timing speed, a black dial with contrasting sub-dials, and a three-register chronograph layout with a date window at ~4:30—striking a balance between legibility and sporty aesthetics. The watch is finished with a dual-curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, LumiBrite-coated hands and markers, and a robust 100 m water resistance, making it equally suited for daily wear or spirited timing sessions.

Powering the SRQ055 is Seiko’s Caliber 8R48 automatic movement, a column-wheel chronograph with vertical clutch that delivers smooth, precise starts/stops and strong reliability rooted in Seiko’s in-house engineering tradition. It runs at 28,800 vph, has 34 jewels, and offers approximately 45 hours of power reserve, along with both automatic and manual winding capability. The watch typically comes on a stainless steel bracelet with super-hard coating and a three-fold clasp with push-button release, giving it a robust yet refined presence on the wrist. With its motorsport DNA, advanced mechanical chronograph architecture, and classic Seiko reliability, the SRQ055 is a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a mechanical chrono with both heritage and modern execution.

Reference: SRQ055

MSRP: $2600

Dated: Undated

Strap: Stainless Steel Bracelet

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”

New

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.