When I started getting into watches, I wasn’t planning to buy a chronograph right away. I went into a local store hoping to see the Seiko Prospex Speedtimer in person — but they didn’t have it. Instead, I walked out with my first Seiko, first chronograph, and one of the most affordable, fun pieces in my early collection: the Seiko SSB425P.
Even though it’s quartz, the look, the value, and the design were hard to resist.
Release & Background
The SSB425P was released around June 2023 under Seiko’s Essentials Collection — the entry-level line that sits alongside the Seiko 5. It’s designed for everyday wear: accessible pricing, solid specs, and classic Seiko reliability.
Specs & Design
This watch feels sportier and more premium than its price suggests.
Here’s the breakdown:
Case & Dimensions
- 41.5mm stainless steel
- 46.5mm lug-to-lug
- 12mm thick
- 22mm lug width
The case has a mix of polished and brushed surfaces, plus polished pushers and crown. The case back is screw-down stainless steel.
Crystal
- Seiko Hardlex — more shatter-resistant than mineral, but not as scratch-proof as sapphire. Expected at this price point.
Dial & Layout
The subdial layout gives it that quirky “panda” look — and depending on the lighting, almost an “angry owl” personality.
- Silver sunburst main dial
- Black 24-hour subdial at 3
- Black 60-minute subdial at 9
- Silver running seconds at 6
- Date window at 4:30
- Tachymeter printed on inner bezel
- Water resistance: 100m (10 bar)
Movement
Inside is the Seiko 8T63 quartz:
- Accuracy: ±15 seconds/month
- Battery life: ~3 years
Bracelet
Comes on a stainless steel 5-link jubilee-style bracelet with polished inner links and push-button clasp.
How the Chronograph Works
Since this was my first chronograph, I had to learn the basics:
- Start/stop: Top pusher
- Reset: Bottom pusher
- Timing: Up to 60 minutes
- Accuracy: Smooth central sweep hand with minute counter at 9
The tachymeter is functional too — great for measuring speed over a fixed distance. Old-school motorsport charm.
Downsides
As much as I enjoy this watch, a couple of things are worth mentioning:
- No lume — you’ll be checking your phone at night.
- Bracelet feels cheap — it rattles and lacks a premium feel.
The good news?
This watch looks fantastic on a NATO, giving it a sportier, more rugged vibe. I switch between the bracelet and NATO depending on the day.
Final Thoughts
I paid $446 NZD (with a discount), and honestly, it’s great value for what you get. The SSB425P isn’t a collector’s grail, but it is a fun, reliable, sharp-looking chronograph that punches well above its price.
Perfect for anyone starting out with Seiko or looking for an affordable, everyday chrono.
Want to See the Full Review?
If you want to see wrist shots, the dial up close, and a full walkthrough of the chronograph functions, check out the YouTube review here: