Seiko is no stranger to using solar technology to power its timepieces. And the brand’s latest limited edition is another example of Seiko integrating modern technologies into traditional watchmaking. Here we have the brand new Prospex Solar Chronograph reference SSC909P, complete with a distinct aesthetic and coupled with the disposition to be powered by any light, not just the sun. It’s an exciting notion to think that something that was once purely mechanical in nature can now be powered entirely by virtually any light source.
The Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P features a distinct icy-blue dial with a sunburst finish. It’s a very subtle yet effective look, creating a sense of occasion and intrigue. The icy look of the main dial is offset by the black sub-dial registers, the date window with its black background, as well as the black tachymeter bezel and inner links on the stainless steel bracelet.
Encasing that icey blue dial is 39mm by 13.30mm of stainless steel. While smaller in stature than other similarly priced chronographs, this Seiko Prospex watch does look to wear larger thanks to its thin bezel and deep dial rehaut. The exposed chronograph pushers and crown also work well with the overall balance and proportions of the case, making for a very wearable and very practical package.
I really like the tri-colour aspect of the Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P. From the icy-blue dial to the black aspects of the piece, all the way to the stainless steel that makes for the rest of the watch, the Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P has a lovely cool and soft look that is both supremely versatile and contemporary in execution. The use of these three main colours adds points of differentiation and contrast to the piece, all the while retaining a look and feel that seems beyond its very accessible price point.
Powering the Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P is a solar-based mechanism, the V192 calibre. This movement can be powered by any light source and has an incredible battery capacity of 6 months. It can operate in almost all conditions and has a very respectable accuracy of +/-15 seconds per month (while operating at a normal temperature range between 5°C and 60°C).
It has a power reserve indicator, as well as a chronograph that can measure 60 minutes in 1/5th of a second increments, along with a split time capacity. It also has a date indicator and a 24-hour indicator, with luminescent material in the hour and minute hands, as well as in the 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock indices.
The Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P is a weighty piece, coming in at 160 grams, with its exact dimensions being 39mm in diameter, 13.30mm in thickness and 45.50mm in length. It has a practical depth rating of 100m and has the propensity to be worn semi-formally and casually. You can likely pair the Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P with a leather strap to wear with a more formal attire, but with respect to its thickness, you may find it challenging to slide the piece under a shirt cuff.
Overall and as a total package, the Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph SSC909P really reigns supreme. It is priced incredibly well given the amount of tech that you get. It features a very popular colour palette, has the capacity to function as well as a daily wearer as something that you wear occasionally. It has all the bells and whistles you would want from a contemporary solar-powered watch. And it bears the name of one of the best watchmaking institutions in the world. Brilliant, brilliant stuff from Seiko.
Check out this stunning Seiko watch today.
