Seiko's "Seikomatic" line up from the 1960's offers some of the cleanest layouts and most enduring case architecture to come out of era. Mid-century modernity and minimalism that's just as relevant today as it was when they were introduced more than 50 years ago. This 8040 from October of ‘65 is no exception. The dial is a crisp silver sunburst beneath a glossy lacquer finish. It’s set with polished and beveled applied indices, and both the day and date windows feature applied polished frames. Conventionally, the date aperture is at three o’clock, but this “week dater” displays the day in full above the six. The hour and minute hands are polished and beveled dauphines that are easily legible at a glance, and a long and slender sweep counts off the seconds. Framing the dial is a raised chapter with a subtle minute track that gives this piece a truly “all dial” appearance. Like other “water proof” models produced before 1966, Seiko’s “Dolphin” motif is embossed on the case back, and the serial number contains seven digits rather than six. The case has tight lines and sharp angles that give it an almost faceted appearance. Stout, short lugs and a thicker profile provide a well balanced build that wears well on any wrist. It is completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, the gilt finished 6206B is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with a stone gray suede with khakie stitching for a perfect pairing in any setting. Well past the half century mark, it is incredibly well preserved. It is as dependable as it is versatile, and opportunities to own clean examples are quickly diminishing due to demand. This one won’t disappoint.

Kvarnsjo Leather Tapered Stone Suede with Khaki Stitch

Serviced 4/10/22

Diameter- 36mm

Lugs- 19mm