Seiko Speedtimer Caliber 8R48 New Release
New Release

Seiko Speedtimer Caliber 8R48 New Release

By cazalea · Nov 21, 2023 · 9 replies
cazalea
WPS member · Seiko forum
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Cazalea introduces Seiko's latest Speedtimer collection, drawing a direct line from the brand's 1960s sports timing innovations to today's Prospex releases. This article explores how Seiko's historical 'heart-shaped cam' mechanism and the 1969 Caliber 6139 automatic chronograph continue to inspire modern designs. Cazalea highlights a limited edition 100th Anniversary model and a series of solar chronographs, inviting readers to delve into the evolution of a significant Seiko lineage.

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In the 1960's, Seiko announced itself on the international sports timing stage with a whole new generation of high-precision equipment that was enthusiastically endorsed by many international sports federations and used to capture elapsed time at many of the world's leading sports events. Central to this success was a range of stopwatches that incorporated Seiko's innovative "heart-shaped cam" mechanism, a feature which delivered a level of precision once thought unachievable by manual sports timing devices. Then, in 1969, Seiko introduced the Seiko Speedtimer with the innovative Caliber 6139. It was the world's first automatic chronograph with a column wheel and vertical clutch, two devices that delivered real improvements in the measurement of elapsed time in a wristwatch and are still a prerequisite in high functionality chronographs.

Today, A new series of six watches inspired by the Speedtimer and Seiko's rich and continuing tradition of sports timing join the Prospex collection. 

A limited edition watch with a new automatic chronograph movement pays faithful tribute to the design of the 1964 stopwatch, while a second version with the same caliber inside AND 
A series of four solar chronographs complete the range.




A new Speedtimer arrives soon, as a limited production 100th Anniversary model, equipped with both multi-link bracelet and strap.
Movement
Caliber Number 8R48
Movement Type Automatic with manual winding
Precision +25 to -15 seconds per day
Power reserve Approx. 45 hours
Jewels 34

Functions
Chronograph with 30 minutes & 12 hours
Stop second hand function
Date display

Construction
Case/Band Material Stainless steel (super hard coating)
Thickness:14.6mm
Diameter:42.0mm
Lug-to-lug:49.5mm
Three-fold clasp with push button release
Distance between lugs 20mm

Crystal
Dual-curved sapphire crystal
Crystal Coating
Anti-reflective coating on inner surface

Dial
LumiBrite
Lumibrite on hands and index(es)


Other Details
Water Resistance 10 bar
Magnetic Resistance 4,800 A/m
Weight 183.0g

Features
LIMITED EDITION on the case back
Serial number engraved on the case back
An additional calf strap

 Special SEIKO page



I thought I knew about the Speedtimer line from Seiko, having had a few. Apparently I have been under-informed! Take a look at this line-up (or fall over amazed and dismayed).









About the Seiko Seiko Chronograph Ref. 6139

The Seiko 6139 chronograph movement, introduced in 1969, was a significant development in automatic chronograph technology. It was one of the world's first automatic chronographs to feature both a column wheel and a vertical clutch mechanism, innovations that contributed to its precise operation and smooth chronograph engagement. This movement was designed for robustness and reliability, reflecting Seiko's engineering capabilities during that era.

The 6139 caliber powered a variety of Seiko chronographs, often housed in distinctively styled cases that became popular among collectors. Its integrated design meant that the chronograph functions were built directly into the movement, rather than being modular additions. The movement typically featured a single sub-dial for chronograph minutes and a day/date complication.

For collectors, the Seiko 6139 series represents a pivotal moment in chronograph history, offering advanced technical features at an accessible price point. Its historical significance as an early automatic column wheel chronograph, combined with its diverse range of case and dial variations, makes it a sought-after vintage reference.

Specifications

Caliber
6139
Case
Stainless Steel
Dial
Various
Water Resist.
70m
Crystal
Hardlex

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
SA
SALMANPK
Nov 21, 2023
Pretty Amazing Line Up, Something for everyone

My Dad has the SS813 Speedtimer S

IN
India Whiskey Charlie
Nov 21, 2023
These two are great...

Image from Fratello

SA
SALMANPK
Nov 21, 2023
the black dial looks so nice

LE
leopold
Nov 21, 2023
+1 i like "inversed Panda " dial too !!

GR
gregcarraram3
Nov 21, 2023
Love these…but, the date…ugh…why?

TR
traineract
Nov 22, 2023
Looking forward to these on the 8R

Available on the marketplace

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