VFA stands for Very Finely Accuracy, and this Seiko was the most accurate quartz watch on the market in 1973. Model reference 8323-7040.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in September 1973. This is less than four years since the first quartz watch was launched, also a Seiko, so the technology was rapidly evolving and while the prices were reducing, this was not a cheap watch. Other than watches in precious metals, the VFA were the top of the Seiko range in the 1974 Seiko catalogue and this watch came at a price of ¥139,000, which was about two months average salary in Japan at the time. For comparison, you could get an automatic Seiko chronograph for ¥19,000.
CONDITION
The Seiko movement, calibre 3823A, was a revelation. While the Swiss were just launching their early quartz movements and trying to catch up, Seiko moved the bar higher. With an accuracy of +/- 5 seconds a month, nothing could touch it. (COSC chronometer standards today are -4/+6 seconds per day). These thermocompensated movement were adjusted in 6 positions and temperatures, meaning they really were as good as you could get. You also get quick set day and date, and the day can be in English or Kanji, and all is working well. We will install a brand new battery before sending the watch out to the new owner. The textured dial has a few minor marks, and the beveled glass has just light nibbles to the edge. The angular monobloc case hasn’t been polished. We have not removed the movement from the case, but there is an excellent blog here on the VFA and this movement showing just how well it was engineered – this is not ‘just a quartz’! The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred. This model didn’t come on a bracelet when new.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 37.9 mm
Width without crown 36.9 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 41.1 mm
Case Thickness 13.7 mm
All sizes are approximate. The watch is photographed on a wrist of 190mm/7.5 inches.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
