For those familiar with Seiko history, the Laurel sub-brand carries more weight than perhaps any other. It is, in fact, older than the Seiko name itself. Laurel was the name given to Seikosha’s very first wristwatch in 1913, and it was more than a decade later in 1924 that the shortened “Seiko” became the official brand name and began appearing on the dial as we know it today. The Laurel name is also the longest running category serving as the base for the original and later Alpinists, and with variations seen even into the mid-1990’s. It’s easy to imagine that it will resurface again at some point. This variant from November of 1959 is a stunning mid-century example of Seiko minimalism at its finest. There is very little evidence of its 60 years of existence, and a finer example will be hard to come by. The dial is a satin silver beneath a slick lacquer finish with only two lines of text: a finely scripted “Seiko Laurel,” and a printed “Diashock” designation below. The applied markers are finished with a downward beveling, giving them an almost recessed appearance, and each is tapered to a fine point on the inside. The hands are slender polished batons with straight ends, and a thin, reaching sweep almost touches the subtle minute track. The case is simple and classic with a thin bezel, and long beveled lugs. The movement is a 21j hand winder that’s beautifully finished, and features a bridged balance. It’s unpolished and completely original, including the crystal that was carefully hand polished. It’s keeping excellent time post service, and is truly a living piece of Seiko history. We’ve paired it with a chestnut leather for a clean finish that’s comfortable for any occasion, and nicely showcases the case and dial. 

Kvarnsjo Leather Smooth Chestnut Leather with Dark Brown Stitching (cheapestnatostraps.com)

Serviced 8/27/19

Diameter- 33mm

Lugs- 19mm