Development initiated with an emphasis on chronographs

Kimura: I’d like to discuss the chronograph feature of the Prospex Speedtimer, which we were responsible for designing. A chronograph is essentially a stopwatch function, used to measure elapsed time.

Uchiura: At Seiko, the chronograph symbolizes the spirit of challenge, as it has consistently supported athletes striving to break records. We initiated this product development project with the aim of further advancing the category of chronographs.

Kimura: Additionally, with divers’ watches now widely recognized by users and Prospex being strongly associated with the sea, our goal was to develop compelling products that broaden our presence in the domain of land-based activities. 

Kimura: Before undertaking responsibility for the Prospex brand, I was involved in designing watches for a fashion brand, collaborating closely with various designers and artists throughout the manufacturing process. Uchiura, on the other hand, worked in motorcycle design for a manufacturer, and thus we both, in our own ways, had a different approach to product development prior to our current roles.

Uchiura: Given our backgrounds, I believe this project called for design perspectives that weren’t constrained by conventional values.

Carrying forward the DNA of high functionality

Kimura: Seiko’s chronographs trace their origins to the highly accurate stopwatches used at the global games in Tokyo.

Uchiura: In developing the new model, we meticulously preserved the “DNA of accurate timekeeping.”

Kimura: Ensuring the practicality of the chronograph is our primary focus. For instance, the chronograph sub-dials are black or dark blue, paired with white-painted hands to provide a strong contrast. Additionally, the width and shape of the indices, along with the color of the printing, are meticulously designed to enhance legibility.

Uchiura: The push buttons are designed for ease of use and make a satisfying “click” when pressed, providing a feeling akin to that of a stopwatch.

As a product, it must be visually appealing.

Uchiura: While high functionality is a prerequisite for a chronograph, I believe it is equally important to ensure a high level of satisfaction with the chronograph as a product.

Kimura: I believe the mechanical chronograph SBEC011 embodies that sentiment particularly well. While we often receive requests for a metal bracelet during product development, we wanted to give this model a lighter impression. For that reason, we opted exclusively for a crocodile leather strap, making this model particularly special.

Although designed as a sporty model, it’s also versatile enough for everyday wear, seamlessly complementing the wearer’s lifestyle.

Uchiura: The color of this dial was developed with inspiration from the slightly muted blue of the Seiko logo from the 1960s. We were also meticulous about the dial’s finish. The base of the dial features a vertical hairline finish, with a layer of blue paint applied over it. This allows the nuance of the color to shift depending on the viewing angle, enhancing the sense of the metal’s unique texture.

Kimura: We wanted this watch to be something people could enjoy casually as part of their daily lives, so we designed it with both emotion and fashion in mind. The blue dial, in particular, is a versatile shade that pairs beautifully with denim.

Kimura: When developing the new solar chronograph, we focused on understanding what our customers value most when selecting a watch.

Uchiura: Our challenge was to maximize the functional value of a solar chronograph through design. To ensure satisfaction despite its compact size, we meticulously refined the case and bracelet, and designed the watch to offer a comfortable weight. We were thrilled to receive positive feedback from customers following the launch.

Kimura: From my experience designing watches for fashion brands, I’ve found that while functionality is important, the initial appeal often depends on whether the product resonates emotionally and inspires intuitive attraction.

Since the weight of the metal contributes to the sense of satisfaction when worn, the design was crafted to ensure that the weight of the watch can be felt even visually.

It’s about whether the creator can truly love it.

Kimura: Prospex is a brand cherished by those with active lifestyles. And, in fact, Uchiura and I share a passion for cars, motorcycles, and active sports. On our days off, we enjoy activities such as touring and visiting the beach or snowy mountains to pursue our hobbies. We truly are the target demographic for this watch.

Uchiura: Yes, that’s right. That’s why I approach our products with the questions, “Would I want to buy this if I were the customer?” and “Would I be willing to pay this amount?”

Kimura: I truly enjoyed the time I spent with Uchiura during the development stage, developing our ideas with thoughts like “We really want something like this, right?” or “Wouldn’t this be nice, too?”

Uchiura: To truly understand users’ feelings, it’s important to visit a store, purchase a watch, and wear it to experience firsthand how it affects one’s feelings and awareness in daily life.

Kimura: Nowadays, we often hear that “young people are becoming less interested in this and that,” and it seems that many are indeed shifting away from the idea of ownership. However, as a watch designer and someone who values quality products, I hope that young people who are interested can find the perfect item that they truly desire.