Nissan has created a watch just for racing legend John Morton in honor of his SCCA championships behind the wheel of Datsun cars. The one-off timepiece incorporates not only design cues, but parts from the actual No. 46 BRE Datsun 510 that Mort0n drove to consecutive SCCA Trans-Am victories in 1971-72 until its class was canceled.
Made in conjunction with REC Watches of Denmark, the watch features the racing number, 46, in the original font in a roundel and Morton’s signature on the face. Red and blue nods to the twin BRE stripes at the 11 and 5 o’clock positions. The second hand is yellow, a reference to the 510’s Sperex VHT yellow exhaust pipes on the 510.
The watch’s caseback was created from parts of the 510’s original BRE chin spoiler, which was damaged and hung on the walls at Nissan USA’s Tennessee headquarters (the one on the actual car now is a replacement). The spoiler, of course, was an iconic piece of the 510, a clever invention by team owner Peter Brock because solid air dams were illegal at the time. By adding brake ducts the team was able to circumvent the rules and gain a slight edge in a championship where every advantage counted towards Morton’s by-the-nosehairs win.
“This watch is a small token of appreciation for a valued friend of Nissan and a timeless legend to race fans all over the world,” said Nissan’s Dave Bishop, senior manager for product development of Nissan USA’s aftersales division.
“To see this watch with my name on it is such an honor — I can’t adequately express how pleased I was to be presented this keepsake,” Morton responded.
It’s great to see Nissan honor one of their racing heroes, especially one as deserving and kind as Morton. Happy 510 Day, everyone!
Isn’t the reason for the chin spoiler the opposite? I thought it was they weren’t allowed aero devices, so the chin spoiler was called “brake ducts”. That large brake duct also helped to direct air under the car.
You are correct, Sean.
That’s what I get for writing on minimal sleep. Corrected!
I was introduced to John at a Porsche swap meet last fall. Conversation turned to Hino Contessas and, next thing you know, he’s driving me over to see the original BRE shop. A real racing hero and a true gentleman.
The “chin spoiler” was known as a “spook,” combining a spoiler and a brake scoop.
I was in the right place at the right time to get invited to the presentation. John is a fantastic driver and wonderful person, and it is only fitting that Nissan honor him like this.
I met John Morton at the Blackhawk Museum, all Datsun show. He is a kind and generous with his time. He came to see my 70 510, signed the glove box and gave me some advice on maintaining my original engine. I treasure that time, as long as I live.
Z Owners of Northern California were the sponsors of that show that brought John Morton to the event. One of the oldest Z clubs in America. Still going strong after all these years.
Z Owners of Northern California were the sponsors of that show that brought John Morton to the event. One of the oldest Z clubs in America. Still going strong after all these years.
Z Owners of Northern California were the sponsors of that show that brought John Morton to the event. One of the oldest Z clubs in America. Still going strong after all these years.
I’ve had the pleasure of speaking with John Morton on two occasions. He is a true gentleman and down to earth guy. This is a fitting tribute to him
Is it a mechanical watch?
or a quartz?