For all of the love given to this model’s companion piece in black and gold, holding this one in the metal will likely convince you that John Player’s product would have been just as ‘special’ in shades of blue. Though no official partnership was ever forged, the similarities between Seiko’s 6138-8030 and the JPS Lotus 72 are, at the very least, intriguing. So much so, that the black and gold 8030 has been and will likely forever be known as the Seiko John Player Special. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise then that this alternate color way has come to be known to enthusiasts as the “Blue JPS.” Let me be the first to say that it is in no need of credentials by association. It is a stand alone stunner that would be a welcome addition to any roster. The dial is a textured navy blue with perfectly balanced luminous plots, and it’s framed by a shimmering silver minute chapter. A true “sandwich” dial, the sub registers are printed on a separate, satin finished and lacquered baby blue that sits recessed behind the navy foreground. This lower dial also makes up the inner frame for the day and date window at three o’clock. Beyond the chapter is a fixed tachymetric scale that adds another level of depth and balanced proportion. The angled mineral crystal flows seamlessly into the bezel, and the case has an almost faceted appearance through crisp lines and sharp angles. This example from April of ‘76 is phenomenal. The dial is absolutely perfect. The hour and minute hands are bright white with no chipping or paint loss, and the luminous within the hands and on the dial exhibits a light patina. The case is unpolished, and the brushed finish on the hooded lugs and case sides is still very crisp. The 6138B offers automatic and manual winding, independent quickset of both the day and the date, and post service, is keeping near perfect time. It comes attached to the original flat three link bracelet for a stock finish and comfortable fit. At just under 40mm (39.8mm), it’s a compact dual register with pounds of vintage presence, and is sure to be a highlight in any collection.

Original Seiko Flat Three Link Bracelet in Stainless Steel

Serviced 6/1/22

Diameter- 40mm

Lugs- 18mm