#TimePiece - Seiko Prospex Speedtimer PV (SSC813)

The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer PV (SSC813) is a modern, sporty solar-powered chronograph that blends vintage racing watch aesthetics with practical, contemporary features.

Design & Aesthetics

• The SSC813 features a 39mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 13.3mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 45.5mm, making it compact and wearable even on smaller wrists. The case has a brushed finish with polished accents, and the lug design helps it sit comfortably on the wrist.

• The dial is a striking panda style (white dial with black subdials), praised for its milky white texture and matte black subdials that absorb light beautifully. The hands are sword-shaped with a faux-tina finish, adding a vintage touch.

• The curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating is a significant upgrade over Seiko’s usual hardlex, enhancing clarity and scratch resistance.

• The watch includes a black tachymeter bezel made of beveled PVD-finished steel, which is visually strong and functional for measuring speed.

Movement & Functionality

• Powered by Seiko’s V192 solar quartz movement, the SSC813 offers reliable accuracy of ±15 seconds per month and a power reserve of approximately 6 months when fully charged by light.

• The solar cells are cleverly hidden under the subdials but can show a purple hue at certain angles, which some users find a minor aesthetic downside.

• Functions include a chronograph up to 60 minutes in 1/5 second increments, a 24-hour subdial, a small seconds hand, a date window at 4:30, and a power reserve indicator integrated into the 60-minute chronograph subdial.

• The chronograph pushers and oversized crown are well-sized and provide a satisfying tactile response, although some reviewers note the pusher feedback is not the most refined compared to mechanical chronographs.

Wearability & Build Quality

• The watch weighs about 161 grams and comes on a stainless steel bracelet tapering from 20mm at the lugs to 16mm at the clasp, which is well-machined with brushed and polished finishes and a secure three-fold push-button clasp.

• The bracelet’s micro-adjustment options are limited, which may affect achieving a perfect fit for some wrist sizes.

• Water resistance is rated at 100 meters, suitable for swimming and daily wear but not for deep diving.

Overall Impressions

• The SSC813 is regarded as a well-built, stylish, and practical chronograph that pays homage to classic racing watches like the Daytona and Speedmaster but at a more accessible price point.

• Its compact size and solar movement make it highly wearable and low-maintenance, ideal for those who want a sporty chronograph without the hassle of winding or battery changes.

• The main criticisms are the price point, which some find steep for a solar quartz watch (around $675-$700 retail), and the visible solar cells under the subdials, which detract slightly from the dial’s purity.

• Despite these, the SSC813 has earned affectionate nicknames like "Seitona" among Seiko fans, reflecting its popularity as a Daytona-inspired alternative.

The Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC813 is a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a sporty, vintage-inspired chronograph with modern solar technology and robust build quality, though it commands a premium price for its segment.