A rare Seiko Speedtimer 6139-8010 on the original PVD bracelet. This automatic, chronograph movement also has quickset day and date.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in February 1973.
CONDITION
The watch has a PVD coating (see here for more about what this is), and the biggest problem with PVD is that when it wears you see the high contrast between the black and the stainless steel. This is visible on this watch but not to a massive extent, and Seiko were quite smart when they left the caseback in natural stainless steel. The dial is in good order, the lume faded evenly and the chronograph functions work and snap back to 12 nicely. The crystal is scratched, and we will be ordering a new one once we can find the right one – the photos will be updated then.
There is a claim that the Seiko 6139A was the World’s first automatic chronograph, but others say it was the Zenith el-Primero or the Calibre 11 of Heuer/Breitling/Hamilton partnership. We are not going to get into that argument, but it was certainly groundbreaking as all three were launched in 1969. This has the slightly later 6139B, with improved switching mechanism. The watch also features a quick set day and date – push once to change the date, push deeper to change the day. The day wheel is in English and Kanji.
At time of press, the last one sold on eBay in Europe (there was only one!) fetched £330, so we know this fine example is priced to sell.
Please see the HD video below for more detail.
SIZE
Approximately 41.3 mm wide including the unsigned crown, 14.1 mm thick. Takes an 18 mm strap. The bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of approximately 195 mm.
PRICE
£ SOLD including 3 months guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses.
