If it came down to owning just one watch, there’s no question that Seiko’s 6309-7040/49 is a strong contender. Still their top selling diver to date, it’s a tool watch so perfectly executed, it remains firmly seated at the top of our list. Balance, contrast, and contouring all neatly assembled into a finished product that is much greater than the sum of its parts. A bare bones beauty that more than proves that less is in fact, more. This example from May of ‘81 checks all the boxes. The matte black dial is spotless. The Suwa “S” logo above the six o’clock marker signifies that it was built and cased completely in Japan. It would have been among the last produced wholly at Suwa as the following year, case production was moved to Hong Kong. For many collectors, this detail can be an absolute deal breaker. The hour markers are free degradation or discoloration, and the luminous material has only hints of a developing patina. The hands have retained their bright polished finish, and the luminous material is a clean bright white. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction, and the insert has light even wear. The case is unpolished, and it’s original finishes are still clearly intact. The case back markings are clear and crisp, and along with the crown, it screws down tightly with ample threading. We’ve paired it with an updated “Tropic” style strap for a clean comfortable finish, and post service it’s keeping near perfect time.  Completely original aside from a replacement crystal, it is a true Seiko icon, and a must have for any collector.

CNS “Tropic” Style Black Rubber Strap

Serviced 4/21/20

Diameter- 44mm

Lugs- 22mm