Seiko Watch Review: The Black Series - Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC923, SSC917, and Prospex King Turtle SRPK43

Sexy as Hell!

Seiko Night Vision SSC923P1

Seiko Night Vision SSC917P1

Seiko Night Vision SRPK43K1

If you're on the hunt for a versatile and stylish chronograph that blends form and function effortlessly, look no further than the Seiko Prospex "Black Series". Three perfect watches that I recommend if you love the Seiko brand and the charm of the night (Night Vision):

• Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC923 (currently available on Amazon USA)

• Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC917 (currently available on Amazon USA)

• Prospex King Turtle SRPK43 (currently available on Amazon USA)

Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC923

The Seiko Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC923 is a masterpiece that embodies precision and elegance, perfectly suited for both professional use and casual wear. Part of Seiko's renowned Black Series, the SSC923 is designed with a focus on functionality and style. This dramatic watch is part of a high-intensity collection inspired by the 1969 "Speedtimer," the world's first self-winding chronograph, extending it to the Black Series. Featuring Seiko’s "Green LumiBrite Pro," developed by combining the color most recognizable in the dark with a higher brightness and longer afterglow, this extraordinary timepiece provides a "night vision" experience for visibility in the dark resembling the view seen through a night scope. The chronograph function measures up to 60 minutes of elapsed time in 1/5-second increments and includes a split time function, while the solar cell, powered by any light source, with no battery change required, provides a 6-month power reserve when fully charged. The dark gray dial features 3 black subdials, and includes a 24-hour indicator and power reserve indicator, as well as a date calendar and green LumiBrite hands and markers. Crafted of stainless steel with black hard coating paired with a black combination nylon/ leather strap, it also includes a curved anti-reflective sapphire crystal, black tachymeter bezel, and a secure screwdown caseback. 10 bar, 100M Water Resistant

Movement

The SSC923 features Seiko’s V192 solar movement, which is not only highly accurate but also eco-friendly. This movement harnesses light energy to power the watch, eliminating the need for battery changes. The chronograph function allows for precise timekeeping, with a 60-minute counter, a 24-hour subdial, and a power reserve indicator.

Size and Technical Specifications

• Case Diameter: 41.4mm

• Case Thickness: 13mm

• Length: 45.9mm

• Lug Width: 21mm

• Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 bar)

• Crystal: Curved Sapphire with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface

Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC917

Another stellar piece in the Black Series is the Seiko Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC917. This model shares many attributes with the SSC923 but stands out with its distinct design elements.

Movement

The SSC917 is also powered by the Seiko V192 solar movement. This reliable movement offers a chronograph function, a 60-minute counter, a 24-hour subdial, and a power reserve indicator. The solar technology ensures consistent performance and reduces the environmental impact of battery replacements.

Size and Technical Specifications

• Case Diameter: 39mm

• Case Thickness: 13.3mm

• Length: 45.5mm

• Lug Width: 20mm

• Water Resistance: 100 meters (10 bar)

• Crystal: Curved Sapphire with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface

The black ion-plated stainless steel case of the SSC917 exudes a sophisticated and rugged aesthetic. The dial features bold, easy-to-read markers and hands treated with Lumibrite for superior visibility. The watch’s design is completed with a durable stainless steel strap with a Tri-fold push button release clasp, providing both comfort and durability.

Prospex King Turtle SRPK43

The Prospex King Turtle SRPK43 is a standout model in Seiko's Black Series, known for its robust build and iconic design. This diver’s watch combines durability with Seiko’s advanced technology, making it a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors. Featuring “Green LumiBrite Pro," developed for divers by combining the color most recognizable in the dark with a higher brightness and longer afterglow, this extraordinary timepiece provides a "night vision" experience for visibility in the dark resembling the view seen through a night scope. The striking dark gray dial also features a magnified day/date calendar and is framed by black ceramic uni-directional rotating elapsed timing bezel. Following ISO standards for scuba diving, this Prospex Black Series model offers a stainless steel case and bracelet with black hard coating, a design based on one of Seiko’s most iconic diving styles, and includes a screwdown crown and caseback, a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface, and a tri-fold push button release clasp with secure lock and extender. For reliable timing in rough waters, the 24-jewel automatic movement beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of approximately 41 hours and manual winding capability. 200m Water Resistant.

Movement

The SRPK43 is equipped with the automatic 4R36 movement, known for its reliability and precision. This movement features a day-date complication, hacking seconds, and a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. The 4R36 is a workhorse movement that ensures the watch performs under the toughest conditions.

Size and Technical Specifications

• Case Diameter: 45mm

• Case Thickness: 13.22mm

• Length: 47.7mm

• Lug Width: 22mm

• Water Resistance: 200 meters (20 bar)

• Crystal: Sapphire with a magnifier

Conclusion

Seiko's Black Series, featuring the Prospex SpeedTimer Solar Chronograph SSC923, SSC917, and Prospex King Turtle SRPK43, offers a diverse range of high-performance timepieces. Each model stands out with its unique features, robust movements, and sleek design, making them must-haves for any watch collector or Seiko enthusiast. For more in-depth reviews and the latest updates on Seiko watches, stay tuned to our blog. Join our community of watch aficionados and share your passion for horology!

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