Though we typically only offer vintage mechanical watches, it’s hard to ignore the allure of a quartz watch that started a revolution. At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and designs so far removed from tradition that they were hardly recognizable as wrist watches, Seiko took a step backwards in order to bring watch design forward. Introduced in 1983, the 7A28 was the worlds first analog quartz chronograph, and to say they got it right is an understatement. It is a 15 jewel movement devoid of a single piece of plastic. It can be regulated to dial in performance, and was built in a way that allowed for the replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today. Two years later, in 1984, the 7A38 was introduced. Just like its predecessor, the design allowed for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and a tenth of a second totaler. The center seconds is stationary unless the chronograph is engaged, at which point it measures elapsed seconds for the chronograph. In addition, there was now a day and date window nestled neatly into the 1/10 second sub register. Either can be set independently via the crown in the second position. Along with this new feature, a whole host of new designs was now available to suit any taste. If you are unfamiliar with this movement, we can all but bet that a little research will have you ready to track down your own. In the last couple of years, collectibility for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. Nicknamed for it’s resemblance to a certain Gerald Genta design, this example from November of ‘83 is a list topper for many collectors. It’s dodecagonal bezel with studs at the half hour make it instantly recognizable. The case follows suit as an exaggerated hexagon of brushed and polished surfaces. A major component when looking for this model is whether or not the original bracelet is intact. The split lugs do not offer a universal fit, so options for a retro fit can be a tricky, with often disappointing results. The original bracelet offers a seamless transition from the case through a smooth taper beginning at the lugs, and a well matched, brushed “three link” design with a polished mid-link flourish. The dial is as perfect as the layout. A black and gold mix with stark contrast and clever balance. The sub registers sit recessed beneath a soft satin gold mid dial, and are finished in a subtle “north to south” grain that subtly changes their color when viewed from differing angles. The polished applied markers are finished in glossy black striping that perfectly aligns with the finishes of the hands, and framing it all is a thick, satin finished chapter with tachymetric scaling. This one is unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is functioning flawlessly. One of the rarer 7A38 models, complete examples in this condition are scarce. If you’ve been waiting for an opportunity, this one will not disappoint. 

Original Seiko Tapered Three Link Bracelet in Stainless Steel 

Serviced 3/10/20

Diameter- 38.5mm

Lugs- N/A