The most desirable dial of any Seiko is their snowflake, and they do not come around often. Model reference 4843-8050 or QNK050.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the case back we can accurately date this watch to being made in December 1976. The instruction book that is included also has a sale date on it, but this is for a slightly different model so that date has been ignored. It is likely the instruction book was paired with this watch at a much later date, but it is the correct instruction manual.
CONDITION
It is not just the snowflake dial that makes this special. The Grand Quartz was on of the most expensive Seiko watches available – the Superior was pinnacle at ¥180,000, then the oft overlooked VFA like this one at ¥150,000, and this model at ¥100,000. For perspective, ¥100,000 was 20% more than the next best Grand Quartz with a standard dial, and you could have four Speedtimer mechanical chronographs, and change, for the price of this watch in 1976. Why so expensive? Well the 4843A movement was accurate to +/- 5 seconds a month, or about thirty times better than a COSC chronometer. You also get quick set day and date, with the day wheel in either English or Kanji. Everything is working correctly, and we will install a brand new battery before sending the watch out to the new owner. The original bracelet is full length and can be adjusted without the need for special tools. It is the original reference XBB020, which is mentioned in the 1976 catalogue which we have shown. But it is the snowflake dial that makes this stand out – it has such depth and texture that it means this dial makes this watch worth 40% more than a standard Grand Quartz. The case and bracelet do have some light signs of wear, but you will be looking at the dial more than those.
This watch will be supplied with the original presentation box, instruction book 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 37.3 mm
Width without crown 35.8 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 41.9 mm
Case Thickness 10.8 mm
Bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of 220 mm. The bracelet can be sized for you if you give us your wrist size when placing the order.
All sizes are approximate.
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.
