In the world of horology, where precision engineering meets artistic expression, few collaborations resonate as deeply as those born from a shared passion for motorsport. This fall, Casio Edifice and Honda are stoking the fires of that passion with a stunning new limited-edition timepiece that is more than just a watch—it’s a wearable piece of Formula 1 history.
Announced as the model ECB-2300HR-1A, this special Edifice watch commemorates the 60th anniversary of a landmark moment: Honda’s first-ever Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix victory. The year was 1965, the car was the iconic RA272, and the win in Mexico marked the first time a Japanese vehicle and team had ever triumphed on the world’s most prestigious racing stage.
This isn't just another branded accessory; it's a meticulously crafted tribute, with every detail serving as a nod to the engineering and spirit of that historic achievement. For collectors, motorsport fans, and watch enthusiasts, this is a release that demands attention.
A Design Forged in Victory
The connection to Honda’s racing heritage is immediate and striking. The most prominent feature is the brilliant white ceramic bezel, finished in Honda’s legendary "Championship White"—the official color of the brand's victories. Emblazoned on this bezel is a gold-accented "60," firmly marking the anniversary milestone. A subtle but significant technical detail for racing purists is the bezel scale, which counts up in five-second increments, a feature not found on the standard ECB-2300 models.
Turning your gaze to the dial, the Honda logo stands proudly in red, a color that continues in a ring encircling the face. This design echoes two powerful symbols: the Japanese flag, or Hinomaru, and the red racing roundel that adorned the nose of the championship-winning RA272. Further reinforcing the automotive DNA, the subdial at the 9 o’clock position is thoughtfully modeled after a classic tachometer.
For a more in-depth look at the design philosophy, you can explore the details on the official Casio Edifice product page.
Strapped with History
Casio’s dedication to storytelling extends to the very strap that holds the watch to your wrist. This is where the tribute becomes deeply personal and technical.
- The exterior of the strap is printed with the technical specifications of the RA272’s groundbreaking 1.5L V12 engine—a masterpiece of power that propelled the car to victory.
- The gold keeper on the buckle is meticulously engraved with the race number "11" and the Latin phrase, "Veni, Vidi, Vici" ("I came, I saw, I conquered"). This was the favorite motto of Yoshio Nakamura, a key engineer on the project whose legacy is celebrated by institutions like the Japan Automotive Hall of Fame.
- Flipping the strap over reveals an artificial suede lining for durability, upon which is printed a sketch of the RA272’s engine and the indelible timestamp of the victory: "October 24, 1965, 3:46 PM," all rendered in red and white accenting.
The historical significance of this moment is beautifully documented on Honda's official 60th Anniversary F1 page, which provides context for the watch’s inspiration.
Modern Tech Meets Vintage Soul
Beneath its historically rich exterior, the ECB-2300HR-1A is a thoroughly modern Casio Edifice, packed with the brand's signature robust technology. The 50.2mm stainless steel case, with its suspension arm-inspired lugs crafted from a blend of carbon and steel, houses a suite of high-performance features.
It’s powered by Casio’s Tough Solar technology, eliminating the need for battery replacements. Bluetooth smartphone connectivity ensures perfect timekeeping synchronization. Standard Edifice functions are all present: world time for the global traveler, a 1/1-second stopwatch, multiple daily alarms, a countdown timer, a perpetual calendar, and 100-meter water resistance. Night visibility is guaranteed by dual Super Illuminator LEDs, aided by an anti-reflective coating on the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
For those interested in the technical breakdown and early glimpses, sources like GSMGo Tech often provide valuable insights into upcoming tech and watch releases.
Availability and Collectibility
The Casio Edifice ECB-2300HR-1A Honda 60th Anniversary watch has already been announced in several Asian markets, with a starting price of approximately $530. The global release is scheduled for between November and December of this year.
As with any meaningful collaboration of this nature, production will be strictly limited. This, combined with its deep historical roots and striking design, positions it not just as a timepiece, but as a future collectible. To follow the announcement and discussion around this model, keep an eye on enthusiast communities and detailed Casio watch blogs.
For those seeking a more accessible entry into the Edifice line while they await this special release, a great option is the Casio Edifice EFV620D-1A2V, which you can find and purchase on Amazon.
This limited-edition Casio Edifice is a testament to a moment when Honda arrived on the global stage and conquered it. It’s a watch that doesn’t just tell time—it tells a story.
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