The era of circular watches is coming to an end. The traditional mid-century divers, chronographs, and Calatravas are being replaced by modern, shaped designs. However, Seiko is shaking things up with their latest release, the Prospex Speedtimer SSC947, which pays homage to the iconic "Pogue" chronograph.
Seiko enthusiasts have long been hoping for a reissue of the Pogue. The original reference 6139-6002 watch gained legendary status for being worn by NASA astronaut Col. William Pogue during his journey to Skylab. Its mustard yellow dial with a red and blue bezel became highly sought after by collectors. While Seiko has never officially relaunched the Pogue, the Prospex Speedtimer SSC947 is the closest they have come to recreating its iconic design.
It's important to note that the SSC947 is not a mechanical chronograph, but rather a solar-powered quartz watch. Despite this, it still captures the essence of the Pogue with its vintage-inspired styling. The yellow dial is reminiscent of the original 6139-6002 model, and the black subdials at 3, 6, and 9 function as a 24-hour scale, minute totalizer, and running seconds indicator. The addition of a blue and red tachymeter bezel further strengthens the connection to the Pogue.
The Prospex Speedtimer SSC947 is part of Seiko's popular and affordable collection, which is known for its vintage aesthetics and practicality. With a retail price of $700, a versatile 41.4mm size, and a solar-powered movement that lasts up to 6 months on a full charge, this watch is a great option for any watch enthusiast.
In conclusion, while the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC947 may not be an exact replica of the Pogue, it comes incredibly close and offers a unique blend of vintage design and modern functionality. Seiko has successfully captured the spirit of the iconic "Pogue" chronograph and created a timepiece that can be enjoyed by anyone.
