Casio’s New Honda Tribute Watch Conceals a Detail That Only F1 Enthusiasts Will Notice | Carscoops

      Casio and Honda collaborate on the ECB-2300HR-1A, a tribute watch that combines vintage F1 style with contemporary technology and limited availability.

      The ECB-2300HR-1A commemorates Honda's 1965 Formula 1 Grand Prix victory.

      The design mirrors the RA272’s tachometer and features its color palette.

      Additionally, the gold clasp displays the number 11, associated with Richie Ginther’s winning car.

      While Honda is planning to return as an engine supplier in Formula 1 for the 2026 season through its partnership with Aston Martin, this latest collaboration with Casio emphasizes a notable moment from the past.

      The Casio Edifice ECB-2300HR-1A doesn’t focus on future regulations or advanced racing technology. Instead, it celebrates the 60th anniversary of Honda’s first win in Formula 1.

      This historic victory occurred at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix when Richie Ginther drove the Honda RA272 to become the first Japanese car and engine to triumph at this elite level of the sport.

      A Tribute to 1965

      The watch signifies this accomplishment by incorporating Championship White, the same hue used on Honda’s victorious cars from that time. A red ring encircles the dial, referencing the RA272’s nose, while the subdial positioned at 9 o’clock resembles period-appropriate analog tachometers.

      Almost every visible detail draws inspiration from Honda’s racing heritage. The ceramic bezel is coated in Championship White, and a gold-highlighted “60” is positioned at the top of the scale to celebrate the anniversary.

      The thoughtful design continues on the back of the watch case, featuring laser engraving of Honda’s logo. The strap of the ECB-2300CR is particularly eye-catching, made from white leather and including text detailing the RA272, like its 1.5-liter V12 engine producing 230 hp, which revved up to 12,000 rpm and weighed only 215 kg (474 lbs).

      Furthermore, the strap buckle is gold-plated and engraved with the number '11', the race-winning car's designation, along with the phrase “Veni, Vidi, Vici.” The interior of the strap is lined with soft-touch red suede, showcasing a complex design inspired by the original technical drawings of Honda’s compact V12 engine.

      In addition to its historical nods, the ECB-2300HR-1A provides a range of modern features. It incorporates Casio’s Tough Solar charging system and connects via Bluetooth to a smartphone app for settings adjustments.

      It boasts various functionalities including world time, a multifunction stopwatch, countdown timer, perpetual calendar, multiple alarms, and Super Illuminator LED lighting. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, and carbon-and-steel suspension-style lugs contribute a subtle motorsport-inspired structural detail.

      Availability and Pricing

      Unlike many watches themed after automobiles, this model is reasonably priced. It has already been released in Japan, retailing at 66,000 yen, approximately $423. Pricing and availability for North America have not yet been disclosed, but a few Japan Domestic Market (JDM) versions have appeared on eBay at a significantly higher price of $1,100.