In 1970, Seiko’s Daini division set a world record for the thinnest production self-winding chronograph in the world when it unveiled the 7017. Achieving this goal meant foregoing many of the components and features available on Suwa’s 6139/8 counterparts, most notably the lack of a minute totaler. This meant only 60 seconds of elapsed time could be measured in any event. Amazingly just one year later, the follow up 7018 was able to retain the same record holding 5.9mm thickness, and now included a “creeping” 30 minute totaler. One more addition was on the horizon, however, and in 1972 the 7016 hit the market. Now a legitimate contender to the 6138, it featured a 12 hour totaler in a stacked position beneath the 30 minute totaler allowing for a shared sub register. Slimmer, and more compact than the Suwa 61 series chronographs, Daini’s 70’s boasted one other feature we’ve yet to mention that gives them a clear technical edge; a “Flyback” reset. Rather than having to first stop the chronograph mechanism before resetting the hands to zero, the hands of the 70 can be zeroed while still in motion, and will immediately begin totaling elapsed time again. This means more accurate timing of multiple starts and stops within a timed event. The 7016 was Seiko’s last production mechanical chronograph of the era before the onset of the quartz revolution, and without a doubt, deserves representation on the roster of any serious enthusiast. Though the cushion and tank shaped “Monaco” styles get most of the attention, the more classic construction of the 7000 and 8000 references bring a bright versatility that can be hard to top. This example from February of 1977 features a deep cobalt blue dial with a textured sunburst finish, and applied baguettes to mark the hours. The recessed sub register is home to both a 30 minute and 12 hour register, and are totaled by “creeping” white and baby blue hands with corresponding tracks along the border. Framing the dial is a raised silver minute chapter, followed by a steeply angled tachymeter ring in the same cobalt blue as the dial. The hour and minute hands are polished batons with white striping through the center, and the chronograph sweep in flat white is free of any chipping or paint loss. A mixed finish frame displays the day and date at three, and both can be quickset via the crown (press for day, at second position for date). The case has an almost faceted appearance with mixed finishes and sloping, tapered lugs. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is keeping near perfect time. The chronograph functions are snappy and responsive, and the “Flyback” feature zeroes as it should. We’ve paired it with a dark Sienna leather that pairs beautifully with the dial, and offers comfort on the wrist. An incredible piece of Seiko’s technical history, it’s sure to be a highlight in any collection.

Kvarnsjo Leather Smooth Vintage Sienna with White Stitch

Serviced 4/12/22

Diameter- 39mm

Lugs- 19mm