Seiko gave us the world’s first quartz analog chronograph in 1982, and the precision and build quality made an indelible impact on Great Britain’s Ministry of Defence. When durability and reliability matter most, replacing issued pilot’s watches was a carefully considered propostion. After more than a decade of Valjoux 7733’s produced for the MoD by a handful of manufacturers, the early 80’s saw the Brit’s come to rely on a single Seiko model for Royal Air Force pilots. The 7A28-7120 is documented as having been issued to RAF pilots as early as October of 1984, and faithfully fulfilled it’s duties until it was replaced in late 1990 by yet another Seiko model, the 7T27-7A20. These earlier 7A28’s, or Gen. 1 chronographs as they are often referred to, are a top tier acquisition for many collectors. They can be difficult to source, and sprawling demand sees available examples offered and sold at lightning speed. I’ve spent more than a year trying to procure the right example to offer here, and it has finally arrived. From January of ‘90, this example is incredible. The dial is absolutely perfect. A soft matte black with three recessed sub registers and clean white printing throughout. The “P” encircled mid-dial indicates the use of Promethium as the luminous material used, and it is flawless on both the hour markers, as well as the satin finished “pencil” hour and minute hands. A steep “count up” chapter creates well balanced depth, and the white chronograph hands offer perfect contrast. The case is crisp with razor sharp corners, and the factory sandblast finish shows very little in the way of wear. The architecture is nothing if not utilitarian. Sloping tapered lugs hug the wrist, and an integrated bezel ensures durability. The case back bears the wear marks of the original G10 strap, but the markings are still crisp and legible at a glance. 6645 denotes its Federal Supply Group and Class, followed by 99, Britain’s Country Code. Beneath that, 7683056 which indicates the specific NSN (NATO Stock Number) for this model. Many countries also employ words or symbols as an identifier of ownership, and in the case of Great Britain, it’s the familiar “Broad Arrow” or Pheon. An important detail as it is a reminder that this watch might be carried by a RAF pilot, but it is the property of the Crown. Further, it carries an individual production number, 9972, followed by 

/90 to indicate a production year of 1990. Lastly, the individual six digit Seiko serial number 013478. The case back screws down to ensure protection of the 7A28 inside, and after service and a fresh battery, it is keeping perfect time. The chronograph pushers offer buttery smooth operation, and all functions operate correctly. It is completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and we’ve paired it with an olive green “Navy SEAL” strap for a true military finish. A truly rare “bird,” this opportunity is sure to be short lived, and would be a centerpiece in any collection. 

CNS Olive Green Nylon “Navy Seal” Single Pass 

(cheapestnatostraps.com)

Serviced 4/2/20

Diameter- 37mm

Lugs- 20mm