TIMEPIECES · JAPONISTA UNIVERSE
Seiko: From Ginza Clockmaker to Quartz Revolution
Kintarō Hattori founded Seiko in Tokyo in 1881, and the company grew from a clock and watch retailer into Japan’s defining watchmaker. Grand Seiko arrived in 1960 as an answer to the Swiss, the 62MAS of 1965 became Japan’s first diver’s watch, and in 1969 the Astron announced the quartz era to the world. Spring Drive followed in 1999.
Collectors divide the story into eras: the hand-wound dress watches, the King Seiko and Grand Seiko rivalry of the 1960s, the diver and chronograph classics of the 1960s and 1970s, and the quartz and Spring Drive models after. Each has its own references, dial variations and servicing needs, and each is recorded here by reference number, case condition and movement state.
Original boxes and papers add real value to modern references and are noted wherever they are present.
The Hunting Salon™
If you are looking for a particular Seiko reference, the Hunting Salon™ can assist discreetly with search, verification and shipping.
Curator’s note: Read Vintage Seiko Divers, Seiko Astron, King Seiko and Grand Seiko and Grand Seiko and Credor. Browse Collectible Watches. Continue with the Fashionista Bible and the collector guides.
Frequently asked questions
Which was Japan’s first diver’s watch?
The Seiko 62MAS, introduced in 1965.
Do boxes and papers matter?
Yes; see What Makes a Full Set?
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes. Duties vary by destination; see Import Duties on Luxury Goods from Japan.
Index terms: seiko · vintage seiko · seiko 62mas · seiko astron · grand seiko · king seiko · seiko 6139 · seiko spring drive · japanese watches
