Seiko releases literal panda-themed Panda Chronograph watches

Seiko has announced the production release of its Power Design Project Panda Chronograph, a timepiece that interprets the traditional “panda dial” nickname literally. Originally conceived as a concept for the 2024 Incredibly Specialized Watch Exhibition by designer Kiyotaka Sakai, the new models—HHK001P and HHK002P—feature design elements that mimic a panda’s physical characteristics.

The 43mm stainless steel watches utilize a “bullhead” configuration, where the chronograph pushers are positioned at the 12 o’clock position to resemble ears. The subdials are designed to look like eye patches, complemented by a snout and smiling mouth illustrated below the dial center. The dial texture is intended to evoke panda fur, while the hands are inspired by bamboo leaves.

Technical details include a “SASAMETER” tachymeter scale, named after the Japanese word for bamboo, calibrated to 30km/h to represent a panda’s theoretical top running speed. The HHK001P features a classic silver dial with black accents, while the HHK002P offers a pink dial representing a newborn panda. Both models are powered by a Seiko quartz movement.