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. Introduced in 1983, 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 allowed 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 couple of years, collectibility for these 7A models has skyrocketed, and this very early example from December of ‘82 makes it easy to see why. The dial is a matte black with recessed registers and printed text that offers an incredibly clean and legible display. In pleasing contrast, the luminous material on the hour markers and hands has developed an even khaki patina throughout. It’s framed by a steeply angled chapter with tachymetric scaling that flows seamlessly into the “count up” bezel insert. The layout gives this watch great depth and undeniable presence. The knurled bezel envelops the replacement mineral crystal, and adds nice height to an otherwise thinner profiled tonneau case. The crown sits on the lower left, and is balanced at each corner by pushers that perform the various chronograph functions. Other than the crystal, it is completely original, unpolished, and in fantastic condition. Post service and with a fresh battery installed, it’s keeping flawless time, and is sure to be enjoyed wherever it lands.