Seiko Chronograph Quartz Ref. SSB311 / SSB3xx Series (Commonly known as the Seiko "Speedtimer" style chronograph)
Chronograph / Racing Watch · Seiko (Seiko Watch Corporation), Tier: Affordable Luxury / Mass-Market Premium
Period: Modern Luxury / Neo-Vintage Revival (2010s-Present)
Type
Chronograph / Racing Watch
Brand
Seiko (Seiko Watch Corporation), Tier: Affordable Luxury / Mass-Market Premium
Movement
Japanese Quartz Chronograph (Seiko Caliber 8T63 meca-quartz style chronograph movement featuring sweep second chronograph hand and 24-hour subdial)
Dimensions
Case diameter: 41.5 mm, Case thickness: 12 mm, Lug-to-lug: 48 mm, Lug width: 20 mm
Description
This Seiko chronograph offers a striking aesthetic heavily inspired by vintage racing chronographs and classic panda dial layouts. The high-contrast black dial paired with three white subdials creates exceptional legibility and timeless sporty appeal. Powered by a dependable quartz movement, it delivers everyday practicality and robust chronographic capabilities without the high maintenance associated with mechanical chronographs. Its well-proportioned steel case and versatile bracelet make it an ideal daily wearer for enthusiasts looking for classic motorsport style on a budget.
Key Features
High-contrast panda dial layout, fixed steel tachymeter bezel, reliable quartz chronograph complication with sweep second hand, classic pump pushers, and versatile sports styling
Dial Description
Matte black panda dial with three contrasting white/silver recessed subdials in a tricompax layout, applied silver baton indices with luminous inserts, polished dauphine hands with lume fill, date window neatly positioned at the 3 o'clock mark, and printed white minute/seconds track on the outer flange
Case Material
Stainless steel 316L with a combination of brushed top surfaces and polished chamfers
Crystal Type
Hardlex mineral crystal (flat profile)
Bezel Details
Fixed stainless steel tachymeter bezel with engraved black Arabic numerals and graduations for measuring speed over a measured mile
Crown & Pushers
Standard pull-out crown at 3 o'clock flanked by two pump-style chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock
Bracelet or Strap
Stainless steel three-link oyster-style bracelet with brushed outer links and polished center accents, secured with a fold-over deployment clasp and push-button release
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel screw-down caseback with standard Seiko laser-etched branding, model information, and serial number
Movement Type
Japanese Quartz Chronograph (Seiko Caliber 8T63 meca-quartz style chronograph movement featuring sweep second chronograph hand and 24-hour subdial)
Water Resistance
100 meters (10 ATM / 330 feet), suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and recreational water sports, though not designed for scuba diving
Origin & Provenance
Japanese design and manufacture, utilizing reliable in-house Seiko quartz chronograph movements
Age Estimate
Circa 2018-2023 modern production
Cultural Significance
Seiko quartz chronographs democratized sports timing, offering accessible high-performance timekeeping to everyday consumers and solidifying Seiko's reputation for indestructible utility and timeless design.
Condition Notes
The watch appears to be in very good to excellent condition with minimal signs of wear on the case and bracelet. The crystal is clean, the dial and hands are pristine, and the bezel shows clear, crisp markings.
Value Estimate
Estimated secondary market and retail value range: $200 - $350 USD, depending on whether it includes original box, papers, and overall condition
Care & Maintenance
Replace battery as needed (typically every 2-3 years), avoid exposing the watch to harsh chemicals or strong magnetic fields, and have water resistance seals tested during battery changes
Similar Watches
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph (SSC813), Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono, Tissot PR516 Chronograph
Interesting Facts
Seiko introduced the world's first commercial quartz chronograph movement in 1969 with the 6139 caliber. Modern iterations like this capture the vintage racing spirit of those historical pieces while offering modern affordability and quartz precision.