1967 Seiko Seikomatic-R Oversized Date Automatic
Ref: 8305-5000

Specification

Points of Mention

This watch is sold as "Watch Only" meaning it comes with no original Seiko box or original paperwork. The watch comes paired on an aftermarket 18mm leather strap. The watch is from Circa. December 1967 and is in original and fair condition, the case is unpolished based on my opinion, please see the photos to judge for yourself. The dial is original and in very fair condition for its age. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.

The Watch

Seikos history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori established the K. Hattori retail and repair store. In 1892 Seikosha was established to make wall clocks. 1895 saw the production of their first pocket watch. 1913 saw the launch of their first wristwatch, the Laurel. In 1924 the first Seiko was manufactured. Daini Seikosha (now Seiko Instruments Inc.) was established in 1937. Seiko was listed on the Tokyo stock exchange in 1949. The Suwa factory became independent and formed Suwa Seikosha Co., Ltd. (now Seiko Epson Corporation in 1959). In 1956 Seiko launched Marvel as their first true in-house-made watch; they continued to make this watch until 1959. Japan’s first chronograph watch was introduced for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics; it was called the Seiko Crown Chronograph monopusher. Not stopping there Seiko launched Japan's first true divers watch the Seiko Diver’s 150M fitted with the automatic Caliber 6217 which later was given the nickname “62MAS” by collectors. The company name was changed to the Seiko Corporation in 1990. Innovation at Seiko continues today with GPS Solar watches.

Here we have an unusual 1967 Seiko Seikomatic-R which was first introduced in 1960 and the Seikomatic range ran until 1967. Making this watch one of the last to be produced. The 32mm rectangular tonneau-shaped stainless steel case has chamfered edges that are wider at the sides than the top and bottom. The radial brushing around the top adds interest and draws the eye towards the dial. Stubby drilled lugs angled to flow over your wrist. A lug to lug length of 40mm and a case thickness of 10mm ensures a comfortable fit. The smooth bezel holds a domed rectangular crystal above a glossy graduated black dial. An interesting radiating star pattern marks the hours. At 12 o’clock we have a circular framed date window. This configuration speaks of the 1960s style and flair, perfectly combining form and function. At 9 o’clock we have an applied Seiko and 30 Jewels printed underneath. On the opposite side at 3 o’clock we have Seikomatic-R. The steel baton hands are complemented by a sweeping second hand. On the reverse, we have a snap-off case back with a brushed finish and the watch's model and serial engraved into it. Inside an Automatic Seiko Cal. 8305C, 30 jewels, 18,000 beats per hour. The watch comes fitted on an 18mm leather strap.

Personal Note

Some watches we have never seen before and for that reason, we have to purchase them and bring them to stock, this is one of those examples and thankfully it looks incredible and super surprisingly for Seiko from this period. I just cannot get over the date placement and the font used, so modern yet so vintage. If you are into Seiko and after something that is completely different I'd suggest this amazing watch!