Collectible Seiko Watches: Models You Should Know About
by Thomas Jentzsch on September 26, 2023
Collectible Seiko watches are highly sought after by collectors around the world. Knowing which models are in high demand can help you make informed decisions when building your own collection. When it comes to collectible Seiko watches, there are several models that deserve to be on your radar. In no particular order, here are ten vintage Seiko watches that you should know about:
Key Takeaways:
- The Seiko 6309 is a legendary diver’s watch known for its iconic looks and functionality.
- The Seiko 6139 “Pogue” is one of the first automatic chronographs with a unique yellow dial.
- The Seiko 6138 “Panda” and “Kakume” models are highly collected classic chronographs with hand-wound movements.
- The Seiko 6106 and 6119 Rally Diver models are sporty dive watches featuring checkered-flag rotating bezel inserts and reliable automatic movements.
- The Seiko King Seiko offers comparable quality to Grand Seiko and is highly regarded as vintage dress watches.
These models, along with the Seiko 6117 Navigator, the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver, the Seiko 6159 Tuna, the Seiko Lord Marvel 5740, and the Seiko 7A28-7090 Yacht Timer, all hold their own significance and appeal to collectors. Whether you’re looking for a legendary diver’s watch, a classic chronograph, a sporty dive watch, or a vintage dress watch, these collectible Seiko models are a great addition to any watch enthusiast’s collection.
Seiko 6309: A Legendary Diver’s Watch
The Seiko 6309 is widely regarded as a legendary diver’s watch, known for its iconic design and impressive performance in underwater environments. With its robust construction and reliable movement, this timepiece has become highly sought after by collectors around the world. The 6309 features a durable stainless steel case and a rotating bezel, allowing divers to measure elapsed time accurately. Its prominent hour markers and luminous hands ensure excellent legibility, even in low-light conditions.
What sets the Seiko 6309 apart is its exceptional water resistance, reaching depths of up to 150 meters. This level of durability and functionality was unmatched during its time and made the 6309 a favorite among professional divers. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast or a watch collector, adding a Seiko 6309 to your collection is a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless design.
| Key Features: | Specifications: |
|---|---|
| Iconic design | Water resistance: up to 150m |
| Reliable automatic movement | Stainless steel case |
| Luminous hands and hour markers | Rotating bezel |
| Impressive durability | Case diameter: 44mm |
The Seiko 6309 exemplifies Seiko’s commitment to producing high-quality timepieces that combine style and functionality. This legendary diver’s watch has stood the test of time and continues to be a coveted piece among watch enthusiasts. Its timeless design, impressive performance, and enduring popularity make the Seiko 6309 a true icon in the world of dive watches.
Seiko 6139 “Pogue”: The First Automatic Chronograph
The Seiko 6139 “Pogue” is renowned for being one of the pioneering automatic chronograph watches, and its unique yellow dial adds to its allure. Introduced in 1969, this timepiece holds historical significance as one of the early automatic chronographs on the market. Its distinctive yellow dial, affectionately named after astronaut William Pogue who wore it during the Skylab 4 mission, sets it apart from other watches of its time.
With a robust 27 jewel movement, the Seiko 6139 “Pogue” offers accurate timekeeping and reliable performance. Its automatic winding system ensures that the watch keeps ticking with the wearer’s movement, eliminating the need for manual winding. The bold yellow dial, framed by a contrasting black bezel, commands attention and exudes a retro charm that captivates collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Featuring a 30-minute chronograph sub-dial, the Seiko 6139 “Pogue” offers functionality beyond its striking exterior. It allows users to measure elapsed time with ease, making it a practical choice for those with a love for both style and functionality. This iconic watch has become a highly sought-after collector’s piece, with enthusiasts valuing its historical significance, reliable performance, and unique design.
“The Seiko 6139 ‘Pogue’ combines the best of both worlds: a significant timepiece in horological history and a visually striking watch that makes a statement on the wrist.” – Watch enthusiast
With its unmistakable style and reputation as one of the first automatic chronographs, the Seiko 6139 “Pogue” continues to be a beloved piece among watch collectors. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your Seiko watch collection, this iconic timepiece is definitely one to consider.
| Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Movement | Automatic chronograph |
| Dial Color | Yellow |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Hardlex |
| Water Resistance | 30 meters |
| Bezel | Fixed black bezel |
| Strap | Stainless Steel Bracelet |
Seiko 6138 “Panda” or “Kakume”: Classic Chronographs
The Seiko 6138 “Panda” and “Kakume” chronographs are highly collectible, known for their classic designs and reliable hand-wound movements. These vintage timepieces were produced in the 1970s and have since gained a cult following among watch enthusiasts.
The “Panda” variant features a white dial with black sub-registers, reminiscent of the iconic color scheme used by Swiss watch brands. On the other hand, the “Kakume” model showcases a black dial with white sub-registers, offering a sleek and sophisticated look.
Both variations of the Seiko 6138 chronographs feature a dual-register layout, with one sub-dial displaying the elapsed minutes and the other indicating the running seconds. This design not only adds functionality to the timepieces but also enhances their visual appeal. The hand-wound movement ensures accurate timekeeping and adds a touch of nostalgia to these vintage classics.
| Seiko 6138 “Panda” Chronograph | Seiko 6138 “Kakume” Chronograph |
|---|---|
| White dial with black sub-registers | Black dial with white sub-registers |
| Dual-register layout | Dual-register layout |
| Hand-wound movement | Hand-wound movement |
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These Seiko 6138 chronographs exemplify the brand’s commitment to producing high-quality timepieces with timeless designs. Their popularity among collectors continues to grow, making them highly sought after in the vintage watch market.
“The Seiko 6138 ‘Panda’ and ‘Kakume’ chronographs combine style, functionality, and a touch of nostalgia, making them a must-have for any serious watch collector.”
So, whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting your watch journey, consider adding a Seiko 6138 “Panda” or “Kakume” chronograph to your collection. Their classic designs, reliable hand-wound movements, and growing popularity make them an excellent investment in both style and value.
Seiko 6106 or 6119 Rally Diver: Sporty Dive Watches
The Seiko 6106 and 6119 Rally Diver watches are beloved by collectors for their sporty aesthetics, highlighted by checkered-flag rotating bezel inserts and robust automatic movements. These timepieces perfectly capture the spirit of adventure and are a perfect choice for those who appreciate both style and functionality.
The Seiko 6106 Rally Diver, produced in the late 1960s, features a bold and distinctive design. Its checkered-flag rotating bezel insert adds a touch of sportiness, making it a favorite among racing enthusiasts. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, ensuring precise timekeeping and reliability.
The Seiko 6119 Rally Diver, introduced in the 1970s, continues to impress with its timeless design. With its retro charm and striking aesthetics, this watch stands out on the wrist. The robust automatic movement ensures accurate timekeeping, while the checkered-flag rotating bezel insert adds a touch of flair.
| Seiko 6106 Rally Diver | Seiko 6119 Rally Diver |
|---|---|
| Year of Production: Late 1960s | Year of Production: 1970s |
| Movement: Automatic | Movement: Automatic |
| Rotating Bezel: Checkered-flag insert | Rotating Bezel: Checkered-flag insert |
| Water Resistance: 100 meters | Water Resistance: 100 meters |
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or someone looking to add a touch of sportiness to your watch collection, the Seiko 6106 and 6119 Rally Diver watches are sure to impress. With their unique design elements, reliable movements, and rich history, these timepieces offer both style and substance.
Remember, when it comes to collectible Seiko watches, the Seiko 6106 and 6119 Rally Diver models are a must-have for any enthusiast. Their sporty appeal and lasting quality make them a true treasure to own.
Seiko King Seiko: Vintage Dress Watches
Seiko King Seiko watches offer collectors a fantastic opportunity to own vintage dress watches of exceptional quality that rival even the renowned Grand Seiko. These timepieces were manufactured from the 1960s to the 1970s and were the epitome of luxury and craftsmanship during that era.
One notable King Seiko model is the King Seiko 45-7000. This watch features a sleek stainless steel case, a clean and minimalist dial, and a dependable automatic movement. The attention to detail in the design and finishing of the watch is truly remarkable, showcasing Seiko’s commitment to excellence.
Another standout in the King Seiko lineup is the King Seiko 56KS. This watch is characterized by its elegant gold-toned case, featuring a distinctive dial design with a sunburst pattern and applied hour markers. The movement inside is a manual-winding caliber that provides accurate timekeeping.
No blog post on King Seiko would be complete without mentioning the King Seiko 56KS “Lion Medallion.” This particular model is highly sought after by collectors due to its unique medallion logo on the dial, which adds an extra touch of exclusivity. The Lion Medallion represents Seiko’s commitment to precision and excellence.
With their timeless designs and impeccable craftsmanship, Seiko King Seiko watches continue to be highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. If you are looking to add a vintage dress watch of exceptional quality to your collection, King Seiko is undoubtedly an excellent choice.
| Seiko King Seiko Models | Description |
|---|---|
| King Seiko 45-7000 | A sleek stainless steel watch with a minimalist dial and automatic movement. |
| King Seiko 56KS | An elegant gold-toned watch with a sunburst-patterned dial and manual-winding movement. |
| King Seiko 56KS “Lion Medallion” | A highly sought-after model featuring a unique medallion logo on the dial. |
Seiko 6117 Navigator: Tribute to the Rolex GMT
Inspired by the iconic Rolex GMT, the Seiko 6117 Navigator offers collectors a dual time zone watch with a distinctive design and reliable movement. This vintage timepiece features a bold and rugged appearance, making it a popular choice among watch enthusiasts. The Seiko 6117 Navigator’s dual time zone function allows wearers to keep track of two different time zones simultaneously, making it perfect for frequent travelers or those who work across different time zones.
One of the standout features of the Seiko 6117 Navigator is its unique bezel, which rotates independently to display a third time zone. This practical feature sets it apart from other dual time zone watches on the market. Furthermore, the watch’s durable stainless steel construction ensures its longevity and resistance to daily wear and tear.
With its reliable automatic movement, the Seiko 6117 Navigator guarantees accurate timekeeping and smooth operation. The watch also boasts a water resistance of up to 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear and occasional water activities.
Seiko 6117 Navigator showcases Seiko’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, capturing the essence of the brand’s heritage in offering high-quality timepieces at an accessible price point. Whether you’re an avid collector or a watch enthusiast looking for a unique and functional timepiece, the Seiko 6117 Navigator is definitely a watch worth considering.
| Specifications | Features |
|---|---|
| Model | Seiko 6117 Navigator |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters |
| Dial | Black |
| Bezel | Rotating |
Seiko 6105-8110 Diver: Asymmetrical Cushion-Cased Icon
The Seiko 6105-8110 Diver, immortalized by its role in the movie Apocalypse Now, is a highly sought after collectible with its striking asymmetrical cushion-shaped case. This iconic timepiece captivates enthusiasts with its rugged charm and vintage appeal. Crafted in stainless steel, the watch features a bold black dial with luminous hands and markers, ensuring legibility even in low-light conditions. The asymmetrical case design adds a unique touch, making this Seiko 6105 model instantly recognizable.
Equipped with a reliable automatic movement, the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver offers exceptional accuracy and precision. Its robust construction ensures water resistance up to 150 meters, making it a reliable companion for diving adventures. The watch also features a unidirectional rotating bezel, allowing divers to track elapsed time effortlessly. Its cushion-shaped case and crown positioned at 4 o’clock contribute to its distinctive aesthetics and comfortable wearability.
“The Seiko 6105-8110 Diver is a true gem in the world of vintage timepieces. Its appearance in the movie Apocalypse Now only added to its allure and popularity. Collectors are drawn to its unique design, exceptional craftsmanship, and the sense of adventure it represents.”
With its rich history and enduring appeal, the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver continues to command attention from collectors worldwide. Its distinctive design and association with popular culture make it a must-have for serious watch enthusiasts. Whether you are a fan of vintage timepieces or a lover of iconic movie memorabilia, the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver is a remarkable addition to any collection.
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Seiko 6105-8110 Diver |
| Movement | Automatic |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Case Shape | Asymmetrical Cushion |
| Dial Color | Black |
| Water Resistance | 150 meters |
| Features | Luminous Hands and Markers, Unidirectional Rotating Bezel |
Seiko 6159 Tuna: The Shrouded Dive Watch Icon
The Seiko 6159 Tuna, with its shrouded titanium case and impressive dive watch credentials, has become an icon among collectors and diving enthusiasts. This rugged timepiece was first introduced in the late 1970s and quickly gained a reputation for its durability and reliability.
Featuring Seiko’s patented “shroud” design, the 6159 Tuna was built to withstand extreme conditions underwater. The shrouded case protects the watch from impacts and prevents the rotating bezel from accidental rotation during dives. Its titanium construction ensures the watch remains lightweight and corrosion-resistant, perfect for deep-sea exploration.
Equipped with Seiko’s high-quality automatic movement, the 6159 Tuna guarantees accurate timekeeping even in the harshest environments. Its large, luminous hour markers and hands provide excellent visibility underwater, while the screw-down crown and case back ensure water resistance up to an impressive depth of 600 meters.
| Key Features of the Seiko 6159 Tuna: |
|---|
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The Seiko 6159 Tuna remains a highly sought-after watch among collectors due to its unique design and exceptional performance. Its iconic shrouded case and impressive dive watch capabilities make it a favorite among diving enthusiasts who appreciate a timepiece that can withstand the demands of the deep sea. Whether you’re a professional diver or simply a watch aficionado, the Seiko 6159 Tuna is a true dive watch icon worth adding to your collection.
Conclusion
Collectible Seiko watches offer a wide range of models that are sought after by collectors worldwide, each with its own unique features and history. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, these vintage timepieces deserve your attention.
The Seiko 6309 is a legendary diver’s watch that continues to captivate enthusiasts with its iconic looks and reliable functionality. For those seeking a piece of horological history, the Seiko 6139 “Pogue” is a must-have. As one of the first automatic chronographs, it showcases Seiko’s design language with its distinctive yellow dial.
The Seiko 6138 “Panda” or “Kakume” chronographs are highly collected for their second sub-register and hand-wound movement, reminiscent of Swiss brands. If you’re a fan of sporty dive watches, the Seiko 6106 or 6119 Rally Diver is sure to impress with its checkered-flag rotating bezel inserts and bulletproof automatic movements.
For those with a taste for vintage dress watches, the Seiko King Seiko offers comparable quality to its esteemed sibling, the Grand Seiko, at a more affordable price point. The Seiko 6117 Navigator, with its dual time zone movement, pays homage to the iconic Rolex GMT. Meanwhile, the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver, famously featured in the movie Apocalypse Now, stands out with its asymmetrical cushion-shaped case.
If you’re in search of a true dive watch icon, the Seiko 6159 Tuna is a standout choice with its shrouded titanium case. And don’t overlook the Seiko Lord Marvel 5740, the watch that debuted Seiko’s groundbreaking 36,000vph movement, offering great value for its price. Finally, the Seiko 7A28-7090 Yacht Timer, boasting the world’s first quartz chronograph movement, is a stunning timepiece worth adding to any collection.
Each of these models represents a piece of Seiko’s rich heritage and showcases the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality. Whether you’re drawn to the captivating designs, historical significance, or technical advancements, these collectible Seiko watches are sure to make a statement on your wrist.
FAQ
Q: What are some collectible Seiko watches that I should know about?
A: Here are ten vintage Seiko watches that deserve to be on your radar: Seiko 6309, Seiko 6139 “Pogue,” Seiko 6138 “Panda” or “Kakume,” Seiko 6106 or 6119 Rally Diver, Seiko King Seiko, Seiko 6117 Navigator, Seiko 6105-8110 Diver, Seiko 6159 Tuna, Seiko Lord Marvel 5740, and Seiko 7A28-7090 Yacht Timer. Each of these models has its own unique style and significance in the world of collectible Seiko watches.
Q: What makes the Seiko 6309 a legendary diver’s watch?
A: The Seiko 6309 is highly sought after for its iconic looks and functionality. It features a durable construction and excellent water resistance, making it a reliable choice for diving enthusiasts.
Q: Why is the Seiko 6139 “Pogue” considered the first automatic chronograph?
A: The Seiko 6139 “Pogue” is known for being one of the first automatic chronograph watches. It holds historical significance as an early example of Seiko’s innovation in watchmaking technology.
Q: What makes the Seiko 6138 “Panda” or “Kakume” models so popular among collectors?
A: The Seiko 6138 “Panda” and “Kakume” chronographs are highly collected for their unique designs and hand-wound movements. They offer a style reminiscent of Swiss brands and have become sought after in the vintage watch market.
Q: What sets the Seiko 6106 or 6119 Rally Diver watches apart?
A: The Seiko 6106 or 6119 Rally Diver models stand out with their checkered-flag rotating bezel inserts and reliable automatic movements. These sporty dive watches combine style and functionality, making them popular among collectors.
Q: How do Seiko King Seiko watches compare to Grand Seiko?
A: Seiko King Seiko watches offer comparable quality to their more renowned sibling, Grand Seiko. These vintage dress watches provide excellent craftsmanship and design at a more affordable price point.
Q: What is special about the Seiko 6117 Navigator?
A: The Seiko 6117 Navigator features a dual time zone movement that mimics the famous Rolex GMT. It comes in various designs and appeals to collectors who appreciate the functionality and style of a GMT watch.
Q: Why is the Seiko 6105-8110 Diver considered a serious bargain?
A: The Seiko 6105-8110 Diver gained fame for its appearance in the movie Apocalypse Now. This asymmetrical cushion-cased diver is highly sought after by collectors and offers excellent value for its price.
Q: What makes the Seiko 6159 Tuna an icon in the world of dive watches?
A: The Seiko 6159 Tuna stands out with its distinctive shrouded titanium case. It is highly regarded among divers and has become a popular choice for its durability and unique design.
Q: Why is the Seiko Lord Marvel 5740 noteworthy?
A: The Seiko Lord Marvel 5740 is known for being the first watch to debut Seiko’s 36,000vph movement. This dress watch offers great value for its price and holds historical significance in Seiko’s watchmaking history.
Q: What is special about the Seiko 7A28-7090 Yacht Timer?
A: The Seiko 7A28-7090 Yacht Timer features the world’s first quartz chronograph movement. This chronograph watch is highly attractive and beautifully finished, making it a desirable piece for collectors.
Source Links
- https://www.exquisitetimepieces.com/blog/vintage-seiko-watches/
- https://www.fratellowatches.com/seiko-watches/top-vintage-seiko-watches/
- https://www.fratellowatches.com/the-top-10-seiko-models-of-all-time-this-is-it/