1987 Seiko Quartz Chronograph 7A38-7180 Black & Gold
Ref: 7A38-7180
Specification
Lugs : 18mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box & Papers : None
Case Material : Black DLC Coating
Warranty : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
Points of Mention
This watch is sold as "Watch Only" and therefore comes with no Seiko box or paperwork. The watch comes paired on its original black-coated Seiko bracelet with a signed clasp, some wear can be seen. The watch is from Circa. April 1987 and is sold in worn, vintage condition, with signs of wear and fading to the coating but overall very fair considering the age and usual wear we see on these models. 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 making 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.) established in 1937. Seiko listed on the Tokyo stock exchange in 1949. The Suwa factory becomes independent and forms Suwa Seikosha Co., Ltd. (now Seiko Epson Corporation in 1959).
The Seiko 7A38 movement is a special one for a few reasons, the 7A28 was the world's first quartz chronograph released and the 7A38 followed shortly after, the difference was it added a day/date function which is very useful. This model was made in 1987 and had a few design cues from some iconic Gentra designs. I think it is designed well and looks great on the wrist. The bracelet also is very comfortable, and the history of the movement is also brilliant!
The 37mm tonneau case is coated in black PVD. A lug to lug length of 41mm and a thickness of 11mm ensures a comfortable fit on the wrist. On the right side, you have two chronograph pushers. On the left side, you have another chronograph pusher and a screw-down crown. A flat crystal sits above a matte black dial with gilt applied baton indexes for the hours. At 3 o’clock a day/date window inside the 1/10th register. At 6 o’clock a small seconds register and finally at 9 o’clock a 30 minutes register. Gilt sword hands have lume infill alongside a gilt chronograph hand. At 12 o’clock an applied Seiko with Quartz Chronograph in a gilt script. On the reverse, a screw-down case back with a wave engraving in the centre. Inside a Seiko Meca-Quartz 7A38. It uses a separate stepper motor for each chronograph function, giving it a mechanical feel The watch comes fitted on its original integrated bracelet in black PVD with gilt highlights and a signed folding clasp.
Personal Note
I have been fortunate enough to have owned and sold many 7A28/38 models over the years and watching them grow in price has been quite incredible to watch, they are showing no signs of slowing down, and collecting of Seiko grows and the ability to find these in good and honest condition is getting harder. This is a truly lovely example and in great shape, sure there are some wear and signs of age, but overall it is a truly great and honest example.