Seiko is a stalwart of the old-world watch manufacturers and continues to dominate the global market with quality products. Yet, decade-old Seikos aren't something to throw out in favor of a watch that's shiny and new. In fact, they're many different types of old Seiko watches, several of which hold a special place in watch making history.
Seiko Launches the Japanese Wristwatch Market
In 1881, Japanese entrepreneur Kintaro Hattori began a business which made clocks and pocket watches, though it wasn't until 1913 that his company, Seiko, produced the Laurel, the first wristwatch in Japan. The company continued to increase in size and reputation and in 1929, Seiko watches became the official watch of the Japan National Railways. The company has always prided itself on making all components used in their watches and refers to itself as being a watchmaker with experience of all aspects of watch making. This storied past of watchmaking means that there are several old Seiko watches that have signified key developments in watch making history both in terms of Japanese developments and those of the whole world.
- Winchester Firearms Values of Antique Models
- Old Bottle Identification Tips (With Pictures to Guide You)
- Antique Hay Rake: From Hand Tools to Tractor-Drawn
Famous Old Seiko Watches
There are a number of old Seiko watches that represent world firsts, spanning developments pertaining to technology, media, and regional accomplishments. These watches include:
- 1956 - Seiko's Marvel watch was the first one of Seiko's watches that was made entirely using Seiko movements and technology.
- 1969 - Seiko introduced the Seiko Astron, the world's first quartz watch, in 1969.
- 1973 - Seiko introduced the first digital wristwatch with a six figure digital display this year.
- 1975 - Seiko launched the 0634, the first multi-function digital watch with a chronograph.
- 1978 - The introduction of the Twin Quartz watch, known for its ultra accurate movement, occurred in 1978.
- 1982 - The launch of the first Seiko TV watch, also known at the time as the world's smallest television that could access television using a radio tuner, happened in 1982.
- 1983 - Seiko launched the Voice Note, a wrist watch with sound recording functionality, in 1983.
- 1984 - The world's first wristwatch with computer functions is launched by Seiko in 1984.
- 1988 - Seiko introduced the Kinetic watch, the automatic power generating quartz watch that was controlled by CPU-IC, in 1988.
- 1990 - The first computerized diver's watch, the Scubamaster, rolls off of Seiko's lines in 1990.
- 1991 - Seiko launched the world's first "millennium-plus calendar" watch in 1991.
- 1998 - The Seiko Thermic, which was the world's first watch driven by body heat, was sold in 1998.
- 2005 - The first three-band radio wave watch was introduced by Seiko in 2005.
- 2006 - Seiko's Spectrum, the famous electrophoresis display, was launched in 2006.
Tips for Buying Vintage Seiko Watches
With such a wide range of different types and styles of old Seiko watches to choose from, picking the right style and functionality can be difficult. The best way to buy an old or vintage Seiko watch is to determine the functions that are important to you and identify the reasons why you're buying an old watch. Collectors, for instance, have very different needs than someone who is interested in the styling or design of a watch, and are probably willing to pay far more than a casual fan is. You can rest easy, though, since vintage Seiko's aren't currently that valuable on the seller's market. Most vintage Seiko watches that're selling on eBay are selling for under $100.
How to Determine a Seiko Watch's Age
Thankfully, it's possible to tell the manufacturing date of a Seiko watch by looking at the serial number. This number is engraved onto the back of the watch case. The serial number that you can find starts with three digits that represent the year and month of the manufacture, with double-digit months being represented alphabetically. However, it doesn't show the decade for the year; rather, only the last number in the year itself. For instance, you could have a watch with a serial number beginning with a 9 and that could correlate to 1979, 1989, 1999, and so on. Therefore, you'll need to know the decade that the watch was produced to be able to narrow down the date of manufacture.
Many specialist watch makers and dealers will be able to help and can use the case style or other features to date the watch. In fact, one of the easiest ways to do so is to input the model number and serial number into one of the many Seiko serial catalogs online. Using this information and their databases, these websites can give you a more precise answer as to when your Seiko was manufactured.
Are you InTheKnow?
Sign up for our newsletter featuring all the latest stories and products we love.
Buy From a Reputable Dealer
The best way to buy any antique or vintage watch is through a reputable dealer, particularly if a large investment is being made. An old watch can be an excellent time keeper and represent a sound investment. However, if it's broken or damaged, it'll not keep good time nor will it hold its value. A good watch dealer will be able to tell you the watch's history and will be able to give sound advice as to how to look after it in order to keep it in a safe condition.
Time to Invest in Seiko
Vintage watches are a great accessory to invest in if you don't like to spend money on something that doesn't have a practical purchase and like the idea of having a piece of history close to you. Keep it old-school with a classic wind-up or turn to one of Seiko's more contemporary digital watches. Either way, these Japanese wristwatches are sure to be a conversation starter.
© 2023 LoveToKnow Media. All rights reserved.
As a seasoned enthusiast and expert in the realm of horology, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and a passion for the intricate world of timekeeping. My deep understanding of watchmaking extends beyond the superficial, delving into the historical evolution and technological milestones that have shaped the industry. Allow me to demonstrate my expertise by dissecting the key concepts embedded in the article on Seiko watches.
Seiko's Storied Past: The article rightfully acknowledges Seiko as a stalwart among old-world watch manufacturers, tracing its roots back to 1881 when Kintaro Hattori initiated a business crafting clocks and pocket watches. Notably, Seiko's legacy in watchmaking was solidified in 1913 with the introduction of the Laurel, Japan's first wristwatch. By 1929, Seiko watches became the official timekeepers for the Japan National Railways, marking a significant milestone in the company's rise to global prominence. The commitment to crafting all components in-house underscores Seiko's claim as a comprehensive watchmaker, covering all facets of the intricate watchmaking process.
Landmark Seiko Watches: The article highlights several pivotal moments in Seiko's history through the introduction of groundbreaking watches. Noteworthy mentions include the 1956 Marvel watch, the first entirely Seiko-made timepiece, and the 1969 Seiko Astron, recognized as the world's first quartz watch. Seiko continued to push boundaries with innovations like the first digital wristwatch in 1973, the Twin Quartz watch in 1978, and the Kinetic watch in 1988. The diverse range of achievements also encompasses forays into technology, such as the launch of the world's smallest TV watch in 1982 and the first wristwatch with computer functions in 1984.
Vintage Seiko Watches: The article offers valuable insights for enthusiasts or collectors seeking vintage Seiko watches. Emphasizing the wide array of styles and functionalities, it encourages prospective buyers to identify their specific needs, whether driven by collector's passion or a fascination with design. Importantly, it dispels notions of exorbitant prices, noting that most vintage Seiko watches on the market, especially on platforms like eBay, can be acquired for under $100.
Determining Seiko Watch Age: To aid collectors in dating their Seiko timepieces, the article provides a practical tip—examining the serial number engraved on the watch case. The three-digit code at the beginning represents the year and month of manufacture. However, it's crucial to recognize that the code only indicates the last digit of the year, necessitating knowledge of the decade for precision. Specialist watchmakers and online catalogs, using model and serial numbers, can assist in pinpointing the manufacturing date more accurately.
Buying Advice and Investment: The article concludes with practical tips for buying vintage Seiko watches, urging potential buyers to engage with reputable dealers. It underscores the importance of a watch's condition in preserving its value and functionality. Finally, it positions Seiko vintage watches as not just a style statement but also a potential investment, emphasizing their timeless appeal and historical significance.
In essence, the article expertly weaves together Seiko's historical journey, landmark achievements, tips for enthusiasts, and practical advice for buyers, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone intrigued by the world of vintage Seiko watches.
