Affordable and powered by the sun, the Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph SSC947 is dressed in the blue, red, and orange synonymous with the vintage “Pogue” chronograph. It’s not, however, a vintage re-issue but a modern take on a vintage design. “Pogue” refers to the vintage ref. 6139 that gets its name from astronaut William Pogue, who wore one during the Skylab 4 mission in 1973, making it the first automatic chronograph in space.
Initial thoughts
Seiko is expert at vintage re-issues at practically every price point, from the Seiko 5 Sports “Kamen Rider” to the Grand Seiko “First”. This isn’t the case for the SSC947, which mimics the Pogue’s colours but is otherwise a modern-day Prospex Speedtimer.
That’s a good thing for everyone tired of historical remakes, although traditionalists might say the SSC947 doesn’t do justice to the original that’s something of a cult classic amongst Seiko enthusiasts. But the bottom line is, the SSC947 is an appealing, different alternative to the mostly conservative colours in the Prospex Speedtimer line. And it’s priced identically to earlier versions of the watch, so it offers the same value proposition.
The “Pogue”
Featuring a two-tone red and blue tachymeter bezel, the SSC947 has a radially-brushed orange dial with brown sub-dials, just like its vintage inspiration. The flange around the dial is in dark brown to match the sub-dials.
The specs are otherwise identical to the Prospex Speedmaster. The stainless steel case is 41.4 mm in diameter and 13 mm in thickness, and water resistant to 100 m.
It’s powered by the V192, a solar-powered movement is accurate to ±15 seconds per month that will run six months on a full charge. In addition, the V192 movement is equipped with an overcharge prevention function that stops its charging even with continuous exposure to light.
Key facts and price
Seiko Prospex Speedtimer Solar Chronograph
Ref. SSC947
Diameter: 41.4 mm
Height: 13 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m
Movement: Cal. V192
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, power reserve indicator and chronograph
Winding: Solar
Power reserve: 6 months
Strap: Matching bracelet
Limited edition: No
Availability: Available at Seiko boutiques and retailers starting August 2024
Price:
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