All dynasties begin somewhere, and in 1961 the “Tsunami” logo was etched into a case back for the very first time. A two piece screw down case back to be exact, and it was fitted onto Seiko’s very first foray into dive watch territory. The Silver Wave was rated to 50m, and though it hardly resembles a modern dive watch, its importance to the brand can’t be overstated. It is the foundation on which generations of diver innovations and milestones have been built. The J12082 was only produced for about three years in this 50m variant, and was followed in 1964 by a more economical, and relatively much more common 30m version. If you’ve had the opportunity for an “in hand” comparison of both, the difference in build quality is less than subtle. This example from February of ’63 is spectacular, and marks just the third opportunity we’ve ever had to make one available. The silvery white sunburst dial sports a glossy lacquer finish, and polished applied baguette markers. Only a single point of oxidation is visible, and presents as a copper halo along the edge of the seven luminous plot. It is otherwise one of the cleanest we’ve seen, and free of blemishes or peeling. The original luminous plots are intact, and set just inside of each hour marker. The only point of color, a bright teal blue “50” which denotes its water resistance, and shares space with just four lines of well balanced text. The dial transitions seamlessly to the glossy black inner bezel via a beveled minute chapter, and well proportioned “count up” printing. Zero is marked with a large silver crest, and luminous triangle. The hour and minute hands are are sharply tapered dauphines, and have retained their original “mint green” luminous windows. A long and slender sweep counts the seconds. The case is unpolished with sharp corners and crisp bevels, and the case back etching can still be made out with a bit of effort. It’s completely original other than a replacement crystal, and post service the 20j 603 movement is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with a black “tropic sport” style strap that showcases the dial and provides a comfortable period finish on the wrist. A truly rare specimen, this opportunity to own a legendary piece of Seiko diving history isn’t likely to be repeated any time soon.

CNS “Tropic Sport” Style Black Composite Rubber Strap

Serviced 4/30/22

Diameter- 37mm

Lugs- 18mm