Evolved from the 6106-8100, the 6119-8460 delivered the clean lines and minimalist approach that has become synonymous with early Seiko “tool” watches. Bearing a strong resemblance to its predecessor, Seiko stayed true to the style while managing to add a few details that set this variant apart, and provide a cleaner fit and finish. The dial now carried an applied “5” badge and much larger applied hour markers that framed large luminous plots. The hour and minute hands were carried over, but the second hand now had a rectangular frame near the end that allowed for luminous seconds. The “count up”  bezel insert is marked in 5 minute intervals which balanced it perfectly against the dial, and the beveled lugs gave a bit more body to the mid case. For fans of the historic Apollo missions, this watch is a chart topper as it was worn by NASA Chief Flight Director, Gene Kranz. Kranz directed the first lunar landing of the Apollo 11 crew, and is credited with saving the lives of the entire Apollo 13 crew after the explosion of a service module critically disabled their Saturn V rocket. During both events he can be seen in the constant company of two items; his trademark white vest, and his silver dialed Seiko 6119-8460. From January of ‘72, this is a great example overall. The dial is a semi-gloss black that arrived with oxidized markers and badges, and what appeared to be oil left to pool and dry on the lower third. Spending more time than I care to admit, I painstakingly cleaned each marker and badge, and was able to remove the staining left by the dried oil. The only casualty being a few of the white minute hashes along the lower edge. It certainly deserved the effort, and finished, it’s once again a beautiful piece of Seiko and NASA history. The hands were also carefully cleaned to reveal their bright polished finish, and the original luminous material within shows some light patina. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction, and the insert is clean with crisp black markings. The case is unpolished with razor sharp corners, and the factory finishes are still clearly visible throughout. It’s completely original aside from a replacement crystal and post service is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with an Uncle Seiko “Tire Tread” strap for a period finish and comfortable fit. A perfect tool watch with ties to a few of NASA’s greatest program achievements, this “Gene Kranz” is a piece of “wristory” that’s sure to be a highlight wherever it lands.

Uncle Seiko “Tire Tread” Black Rubber Strap

Serviced 10/17/21

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 19mm