Seiko’s New Speedtimers Prove the Brand Is Still the Best Deal in Watches

For those who prefer their Speedtimers without the Japanese carmaker’s livery, there are three new references worthy of your attention: The SPB513 ($995) and SPB513 ($995) are like the SPB517 with its secondary crown and internal rotating bezel, but with silver and black dials, respectively, and orange accents and the type of cool multi-link bracelet seen on certain vintage Seiko watches. Priced at just under $1,000, they’re perfect modern, affordable tool watches. And for those who prefer a chronograph, there’s the SRQ055 ($3,200), a stripped-back version of the aforementioned SRQ057 without Datsun branding and featuring a steel case and multilink bracelet with polished and brushed surfaces. Featuring a black dial with matching chronograph totalizers, it would make a lovely everyday piece for those who prefer a larger-cased tool watch.

Many collaborative watches feel strained, tired, or downright wrong. Whether by virtue of their shared racing heritage or the simple fact that Datsun colors look great on a watch dial, these new Speedtimers just work. At prices ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, they’re perhaps not at the price we expect from Seiko, but they’re darn compelling nonetheless. The non-Datsun references, meanwhile, are even more affordable and still look excellent without the Datsun branding. Either way, you’re getting a darn cool, modern watch that you won’t be afraid to wear daily.