At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and designs so far removed from tradition that they were hardly recognizable as wrist watches, Seiko took a step backwards in order to bring watch design forward. The 7A28 was the worlds first analog quartz chronograph, and to say they got it right is an understatement. Solid construction, “fly by wire” circuitry, and a hefty 15 jewels make for a finely tuned machine that can be adjusted to dial in performance, and allows for the replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today. The design allows for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and lastly a tenth of a second totaler. The center seconds is stationary unless the chronograph is engaged, at which point it measures elapsed seconds for the chronograph. If you are unfamiliar with this movement, we can all but bet that a little research will have you ready to track down your own. In the last few years, collectibility for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. This example from November of ‘82 is among the earliest produced, as this model wouldn’t officially hit the market until early the following year. The dial is perfect in a matte black “reverse panda” layout with recessed registers in satin silver. It’s framed by a steeply angled “count up” chapter that flows seamlessly into the bezel. The glossy black insert bears moderate wear throughout, but the silver and yellow tachymeter scaling has retained its color and legibility. The crown sits on the lower left, and is balanced at each corner by pushers that perform the various chronograph functions. The case is unpolished, factory finishes still mostly visible, and it’s completely original aside from a replacement crystal. It comes attached to the original “H- Link” bracelet with PVD hinges. Post service and with a fresh battery installed, it’s keeping flawless time, and all functions operate correctly. With any and all examples being snatched up at record pace, don’t miss your opportunity to add a 7A28 “Synchrotimer” to your own rotation.

Original Seiko “H” Link with PVD Hinges in Stainless Steel (B1074)

Serviced 8/19/22

Diameter- 40.5

Lugs- 20mm