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. This example from July of ‘87 is the embodiment of 1980’s “flash” done right. Three large, recessed sub registers sit prominently mid dial, and each sports a “north to south” brushed grain finish with polished gold frames. The mid dial is a soft satin silver with beveled markers and an applied “railroad” minute track in gold. The case is a rounded hexagon that’s emphasized by the studded and stepped bezel, and short, tapered lugs provide a seamless transition from the case to the original “H” link bracelet. The 7A38 has been completely cleaned and serviced, and a new battery installed. All functions are operating smoothly, and it’s keeping perfect time. It’s completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and the case and bracelet are unpolished. There is some visible wear through of the plating on the outer bracelet links, but overall its in great condition. Pure 1980’s styling and an historic Seiko movement come together in a sporty casual that’s bound to be a conversation starter.

Original Seiko Two-Tone “H” Link Bracelet

Serviced 4/14/20

Diameter- 39mm

Lugs- 20mm