At the top of the Sportsmatic line, Seiko’s “Deluxe” models offered affordable sophistication and classic mid-century design. This early variant from August of 1964 is truly stunning, and a better example would be hard to come by. The dial is a crisp silver sunburst with a glossy lacquer finish. The markers are applied baguettes with beveled edges and a mirror polished finish. An applied “5” badge and framed day/date window add nuance, as well as a balanced mix of printed text and the “spinning top” logo. Framing the dial is a wide, silvery white chapter with hour, minute, and 30 second hashes. The case is simple and elegant with a thin, sloped bezel and broad tapered lugs. A signature feature of the “deluxe” models, date can be quick set by pressing a pusher located above the crown on the side of the case. Powering the hands is Seiko’s workhorse 7606A. Post service it’s keeping near perfect time and the quick set function operates smoothly. The case back etching has mostly worn away, but is still somewhat visible in the right position. Unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, it’s difficult to believe that this watch is more than a  half-century old. It stands as a testament to the quality of the build, and the timelessness of the design approach. We’ve paired it with a navy blue RAF NATO that perfectly contrasts the dial, and offers versatility on the wrist. If clean minimalism and classic lines are your qualifiers, don’t wait on this one.

Serviced 3/3/19

Diameter- 37mm

Lugs- 19mm