Seiko’s Four New Solar Prospex Speedtimers Shine—With One Big Caveat

Seiko Adds Four New Solar Prospex Speedtimer Chronographs, but the Updates Are Subtle

Seiko has introduced four new solar-powered Prospex Speedtimer chronographs, expanding its popular Speedtimer lineup with the HBJ001, HBJ002, HBJ003, and HBJ004. The new models arrive with familiar case dimensions, the same solar chronograph movement, and a design language that closely follows existing Speedtimer references.

For collectors and Seiko fans, the main talking point is not a major redesign. Instead, these new Seiko Prospex Speedtimer watches appear to be modest refreshes, with the most noticeable change found on the tachymeter bezel.

The four models are separated mainly by dial and bezel color combinations. The Seiko HBJ001 features a silver dial paired with a black bezel insert, giving it a classic motorsport-inspired look. The HBJ002 goes for a bolder style with a black dial, black insert, and gold-toned bezel, crown, and chronograph pushers.

The HBJ003 introduces a green dial matched with a green and black bezel insert, offering a sportier and more modern appearance. Meanwhile, the HBJ004 stands out with a golden dial and a red-and-blue bezel insert, making it the most colorful option in the new range.

The biggest visible update is the revised tachymeter scale. Compared with earlier Speedtimer models, the new bezel markings have been adjusted, replacing some of the highest values with extra graduations. Seiko has not yet explained the reason for this change, but it gives the new references a slightly different visual character.

Another small detail appears on the HBJ001, where the date window seems to be color-matched to the silver dial. That gives the watch a cleaner and more integrated look compared with some earlier versions that used a more contrasting date display.

Beyond these small updates, the specifications remain very familiar. Each model uses a stainless-steel case measuring 41.4 mm in diameter, 13 mm thick, and 45.9 mm lug-to-lug. The watches also feature 21 mm lug spacing, a screw-down caseback, and 100 meters of water resistance.

A curved sapphire crystal protects the dial, with an internal anti-reflective coating to improve visibility. LumiBrite is applied to the hands and hour markers, helping readability in low-light conditions.

Powering the new Seiko Prospex Speedtimer chronographs is the V192 solar movement. This caliber is well known within Seiko’s solar chronograph range and offers a practical mix of accuracy, convenience, and low maintenance. Once fully charged, the movement can run for around six months. Accuracy is rated at approximately plus or minus 15 seconds per month.

The chronograph can measure up to 60 minutes in 1/5-second increments. The layout also includes a 24-hour sub-dial, date display, and a power reserve indicator that can be shown with the press of a button.

Seiko has not announced official pricing for the HBJ001, HBJ002, HBJ003, and HBJ004 at the time of writing. However, similar existing Seiko Speedtimer models have generally been priced in the $750 to $785 range. If these new versions arrive at a higher price, some enthusiasts may question whether the small bezel and styling changes are enough to justify the increase.

The new Seiko solar Speedtimer chronographs are likely to appeal to buyers who want a reliable, sporty, and easy-to-own chronograph with classic racing watch influence. Still, for those who already own a similar Prospex Speedtimer, the updates may feel more like a mild refresh than a must-have upgrade.

For now, the Seiko HBJ001, HBJ002, HBJ003, and HBJ004 add more choice to the Prospex Speedtimer family, especially for shoppers looking for different dial colors and slightly revised bezel detailing. The core formula remains the same: a solar-powered Seiko chronograph with strong everyday usability, sapphire crystal, solid water resistance, and a design rooted in motorsport style.