Deep Dive: Seiko SSC813 aka The Panda
We’ve recently released Seiko mod Chronograph parts, with one of the dials being inspired by the Seiko Panda. Most of you may already be familiar with how this watch looks (and how fitting the nickname is).
Undeniably, the spotlight is on its white dial with black subdials that gives it a classic “Panda” look, similar to famous racing watches like the Rolex Daytona and Omega Speedmaster. But unlike those mechanical watches, the SSC813 runs on solar power with a quartz movement, combining old-school looks with modern tech.
In this article, we’ll explore the design, movement, and overall wearability of the SSC813. And hopefully by the end of this article, you’ll appreciate the accolades of the Panda more and be inspired to build one for yourself.
A Panda with Personality
Source: @apaullowatches on IG
The Seiko SSC813 isn’t just copying other tricompax chronographs, but puts its own spin on the classic look. While the white dial with black subdials reminds many people of famous Swiss-made chronos, the SSC813 adds small touches that make it uniquely Seiko.
Dial Details
Source: @thetimepiecebandit on IG
The dial has a soft, somewhat creamy tone that gives it a vintage vibe, not just a plain white like most online pictures would have you believe. The black subdials are slightly sunken and textured, helping them stand out while cleverly hiding the solar panels underneath. Shiny silver hour markers and sharp sword-shaped hands add a touch of class, while a bit of yellow-tinted lume keeps things readable in the dark without looking fake-aged. You’ll also spot a small date window at 4:30, a common yet controversial Seiko design choice.
Case and Bezel
The stainless steel case is 39mm wide that is big enough to feel sporty, but not too large for smaller wrists. Most of the case is brushed, but there are a few polished areas for contrast. The fixed bezel features a tachymeter scale, keeping things clean and functional while giving it a racer vibe. At 13.3mm thick, the watch isn’t exactly thin, but the curved back and domed sapphire crystal help it sit comfortably on the wrist. Pump-style pushers and a screw-down crown keep the sporty feel going, and its 100m water resistance is enough for everyday wear even in rainy weather.
Bracelet
Source: @seikowatchofficial on IG
The bracelet looks great with its five-link design that tapers from 20mm to 16mm. It’s mostly brushed, with a few polished edges to add flair. But there’s a downside: the clasp only has just one micro-adjustment hole for some reason. That can make it tough to get a perfect fit. If comfort is a priority, switching to a leather rally strap is a solid option and easy to do thanks to the standard 20mm lug width.
Movement and Tech
Source: Seiko Watches
The Seiko SSC813 runs on the smart V192 solar quartz movement that might surprise fans of old-school mechanical watches. Instead of needing a new battery every few years, this movement uses sunlight to charge a small rechargeable battery inside. Once fully charged, it can run for up to six months, even in total darkness. It’s also very accurate, losing or gaining only about 15 seconds a month (Can Swiss mechanical chronographs do that?).
One cool feature is the 6 o’clock subdial, which tracks both stopwatch minutes and the remaining power. After you stop timing something, pressing the reset button twice makes the hand show how much battery charge is left.
Even though it's quartz, this isn’t a cheap, ticking watch. The stopwatch hand moves smoothly, not jumpy like on most digital watches. It starts, stops, and resets instantly with no delay, and it doesn’t need regular servicing like a mechanical chronograph. It’s also tough, with built-in magnetic protection and an instant date change at midnight. Plus, it has overcharge protection so you don’t have to worry about it dying from too much juice if you accidentally leave it out in the sun for too long.
Building a Panda Seiko Mod
Source: @finemods on IG
Chronograph modding is here so building your own custom Seiko Panda is easier than ever! We’ve finally released our NMK955 VK Chronograph case which is a slim and sporty case made specifically for VK mecaquartz movements. It gives you real chronograph functionality with a satisfying snapback reset, all in a thinner profile than most NH builds.
Pair that with the Panda Chronograph Dial, which combines a silver sunburst finish with black recessed subdials for that classic black-and-white racing look. At 30.5mm and designed to fit perfectly into the NMK955 case, this dial is available in both date and no-date versions.
Finish it off with a custom set from our VK Watch Hands Bundle, available in Daytona and Baton variants. We’ve made the regular and chrono hands separate so you can mix and match finishes too. Tie everything together with your choice of 18mm strap.
Wrap Up
The Seiko SSC813 is a great choice for anyone who wants a stylish watch that’s reliable and easy to wear every day. It’s made for people who love the look of vintage chronographs but don’t want to worry about constant care or expensive servicing. It blends classic design with modern solar tech, making it both cool and practical.
If you're impressed enough and ready to build your own Chronograph watch at home, do check out our brand new collection of cases, dials, hands, and movements that will allow you to do so!
Happy modding!