Seiko's "Seikomatic" line up from the 1960's offer some of the cleanest layouts and most appealing designs to come out of era. Mid-century modernity and minimalism that's just as relevant today as it was when they were introduced more than 50 years ago. This JDM Seikomatic-R from January of ‘66 houses the cal. 840, which is the earliest iteration of what was soon to be rebranded as the 8300 movement series. Much thinner than it’s cal. 62 brethren, it’s packed with 30 functional jewels, and forgoes Seiko’s “magic lever” winding system, instead making use of a silky smooth “inversion roller” reverser mechanism. The case features sloping lugs with crisp angles and mixed finishes that perfectly showcases a stunning  silver sunburst dial with a glossy lacquer finish. A thin black crosshair intersects the tapered points of the cardinal markers, and framed date window at three o’clock. The markers are applied cones with hidden luminous wells that would have reflected off of the polished chapter ring. The luminous on the polished baton hands was also hidden and applied to the underside to reflect off of the dial. Having long since lost its glow, i was tempted to re-lume the dial and hands just to see the effect, but have chosen to leave it in its original condition. The date can be quickset via the crown in the second position, and unlike most of its contemporaries, can be set in either direction. Post service it is keeping near perfect time with ample reserve. It is unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal. Though a bit faded from age, the case back etching and “dolphin” motif is still visible and complete. We’ve paired it with a steel gray suede that’s comfortable and versatile, and I’m certain it will be a fast favorite in any collection.

Kvarnsjo Leather Steel Gray Suede Leather with Full Silver Stitch

Serviced 1/4/20

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 20mm