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. It is a 15 jewel movement that can be adjusted to dial in performance, and was built in a way that allowed for servicing, and replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today. Two years later, in 1984, the 7A38 was introduced. Just like its predecessor, the design allowed for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and 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. In addition, there was now a day and date (English/German) window nestled neatly into the 1/10 second sub register. Either can be set independently via the crown in the second position. Along with this new feature, a whole host of new designs was now available to suit any taste. 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 begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. Nicknamed for it’s resemblance to a certain Gerald Genta design, this example from December of ‘83 is a list topper for many collectors. It’s dodecagonal bezel with studs at the half hour make it instantly recognizable. The case follows suit as an exaggerated hexagon of brushed and polished surfaces. A major component when looking for this model is whether or not the original bracelet is intact. The split lugs do not offer a universal coupling, so a retro fit can be tricky and in my opinion, is ill advised. The original bracelet offers a seamless transition from the case through a smooth taper beginning at the lugs, and a well matched, brushed “three link” design with a polished mid-link flourish. The dial layout is an achromatic mix with stark contrast and clever balance. The matte black sub registers sit just beneath a soft satin gray mid dial, and all are framed by a steep black tachymetric chapter. Some slight discoloration is visible along the inner edge of the minute register (see magnified image above), though it does little to detract from the overall appearance of the dial.   The polished applied markers are finished in flat white stripes to match the hour, minute, and chronograph hands, which are all easily legible at a glance. This one is unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is functioning flawlessly. One of the rarer 7A38 models, complete examples in great condition are fairly scarce. If you’ve been waiting for the right opportunity, this one will not disappoint. 

Original Seiko Tapered Three Link Bracelet in Stainless Steel

Serviced 6/20/21

Diameter- 38.5mm

Lugs- (Split Lug) 10mm