Seiko’s first iteration of a GMT pilot’s watch, the 6117-8000 has become as sought after as it has impossible to find. A monochromatic masterpiece, it features a charcoal gray sunburst dial with a glossy lacquer finish, a seamless chapter ring with minute hashes and large luminous plots at the hours, and a wide coin edge bezel with a sterile 24 hour insert. It’s minimal and understated, and that’s exactly what makes it the perfect tool watch. This example from July of ‘69 is unbelievable. The dial is absolutely flawless, and the heavy sunburst grain beneath the finish creates a radial light show with every turn of the wrist. The glossy black chapter is contrasted with matte silver minute hashes, and the luminous plots at the hours are free of any degradation or discoloration. The large batons are legible at a glance, and have retained their original mirror polished finish. The bright red 24 hour hand is the only drop of color amid the grayscale layout, and it is free of any chipping or paint loss. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction, and the spring has been adjusted to provide just enough tension to remain set once positioned. The insert has not succumbed to the fading that is typically found on this reference. The hours and bars are a vivid, stark black, and only a few very light blemishes are visible. The luminous pip is the original, and its acrylic lens is still intact. The case is crisp and unpolished with all factory finishes and corners still razor sharp. We’ve paired it with an oiled khaki leather that’s both comfortable and befitting its tool watch demeanor. It’s completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is keeping near perfect time. Robust as it is rare, its sure to be a highlight wherever it lands. 

Kvarnsjo Leather Retro Oiled Khaki Leather with White Stitch

Serviced 2/28/21

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 19mm