Seiko releases limited-edition panda chronographs HHK001 and HHK002
Seiko has unveiled two limited-edition chronographs based on a 2024 concept watch, featuring a panda-inspired design and playful Sasameter scale.
Seiko has unveiled two limited-edition chronographs from its Power Design Project. The watches are based on 'A Watch Exclusively for Panda Lovers', one of seven concept pieces from the 2024 Incredibly Specialized Watch Exhibition. This panda watch concept debuted as a one-off exhibition piece nearly three years before becoming a production model. Seiko retained the original black-and-white color scheme and added a pink and gray version inspired by the soft pink skin of a newborn panda. The watch was designed by Kiyotaka Sakai, a member of Seiko's product design team who also works on Grand Seiko's Evolution 9 Collection.
Technical specifications and materials
Built on Seiko Caliber 8T61, the watches feature a 43mm stainless steel case, bamboo-leaf hands, and a playful Sasameter scale replacing the tachymeter. The design uses the chronograph layout to form a panda face. Drooping subdials act as eyes, pushers as ears, and hands as bamboo leaves. A nose and mouth appear at six o'clock to complete the face.
The mid-case features a gray coating contrasting with the polished bezel. The dial has a stamped radial texture evoking panda fur. According to Seiko, the SASAMETER can calculate the speed of a panda sprinting at full pace-roughly 30 km/h (18.6 mph). The two recessed pushers are shaped like a panda's ears.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Movement | Seiko Caliber 8T61 (quartz) |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, central chronograph seconds, 60-minute chronograph counter (1/5-second measurement) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Case Diameter | 43mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.6mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 44.1mm |
| Crystal | Hardlex |
| Water Resistance | 30 metres |
| Accuracy | ±15 seconds per month |
| Battery Life | Approx. 3 years |
Aesthetic details and strap design
Dial textures evoke panda fur, with color-matched cowhide leather straps and suede-like details reflecting the animal’s fur and facial features. The watch has a rounded cushion form resembling a panda's head. The crown and pushers are at the top of the case.
The caseback features a rear view of a panda with an anatomically accurate white tail. The original concept had particularly hairy keepers, but production versions have small suede-like details around the strap tip and keeper. Both straps measure 20mm at the lugs and use a stainless steel pin buckle.
| Model | Dial Color | Strap | Limited Edition Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| HHK001 | White-and-black | White leather with contrasting darker details | 3,000 pieces worldwide |
| HHK002 | Pink-and-black | Matching pink leather | 2,000 pieces worldwide |
Availability, pricing and exclusivity
Both models launch in November 2026 at $540, with strict global limits of 3,000 and 2,000 units for the white and pink editions respectively. The price is also listed as £510 or €590. Presentation boxes are tailored to each colorway. The watches are part of Seiko's Power Design Project Collection 2, named Pandagraph.
Designer Kiyotaka Sakai questioned the initial premise. "Is a watch called 'Panda' really seen as a panda in anyone's eyes?" he said. The company stated that they ultimately couldn't use the original name for legal and trademark reasons. The watches go on sale in November 2026.
