During the Vietnam conflict a couple of Seiko variants found their way onto the wrists of many enlisted men and special forces operaters alike. Whether purchased at exchanges or issued by CISO to MAC-V SOG operatives, three in particular have been documented and verified by first hand accounts, and through photographic evidence provided by Frank Greco in his book Running Recon: A Photo Journey with SOG Special Ops Along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. The first iteration of of these fabled watches was the 6619-8060, followed a couple of years later by the 6119-8100 that would take its place, and ends with the Daini 7005-8030. However, there are two other models nearly identical to these known issued models, but a lack of hard evidence to support their inclusion makes best guesses and Greco’s account the closest corroboration we have to the actual truth. Outside of Greco’s mentions, there is also the 6619-8280, which is the earliest model bearing this layout, and was likely the reference that inspired Baker to choose its replacement for his operatives while stationed in Okinawa. The other is the 6106-8219 DX variant. With production dates from as early as 1969, the DX model falls well within the MAC V-SOG timeline, as the group operated through 1972 before being disbanded. As to the lack of evidence, even the known issued models carried no government insignia or markings as they were issued or given to those who might need the plausible deniability that could surely be compromised by wearing a watch that was marked as US military property. All peripheral equipment issued to SOG operatives was also purposefully left sterile for this very reason. For most collectors, Greco’s book and first hand knowledge is canon, but the pre and post MAC-V SOG models remain highly sought after collectibles by association, and are equally difficult to acquire. This “DX” example from July of ’69 boasts some noteworthy advantages over its predecessors. Rather than a base metal mid case, it’s constructed entirely from stainless steel. The 6119 variant was prone to plate loss and corrosion due to its near constant exposure to humidity, perspiration, and a wet jungle environment. Both of the earlier references also utilized snap-on case backs. Only this latter DX version received a proper screw down case back. With the upgrade to the 6106, we also get the addition of a hack lever for setting seconds; an integral feature of any qualified military time piece. A clean and comfortable layout, the low profile case features short, chopped lugs, a continuous beveled edge, and is topped with a thin polished bezel. The dial is the familiar, although captivating charcoal sunburst beneath a glossy lacquer finish. The hours are marked by khaki luminous Arabics with a slight italicization, and the polished batons are broad and easily legible at a glance. This one is unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with an olive drab suede that’s a perfect partnership with the dial, and provides a comfortable fit and finish on the wrist. Difficult to source in any condition, this example is spectacular, and is sure to be a frontrunner on any roster.

CNS Tapered Heritage Olive Drab Suede with Khaki Stitch

Serviced 2/26/23

Diameter- 36mm

Lugs- 19mm