Seiko's "Seikomatic" line up from the 1960's offers some of the cleanest layouts and most enduring case architecture to come out of the era. Mid-century modernity and minimalism that's just as relevant today as it was when they were introduced almost 60 years ago. This 8040 from February of ‘66 is no exception, and marks the first opportunity we’ve had to offer the scarce charcoal sunburst variant. The dial is a crisp graphite sunburst beneath a glossy lacquer finish that’s set with applied baguettes with polished beveling and a satin finished top. Both the day and date windows feature applied polished frames with the date at three, and the day in full above the six. The broad hour and minute hands are polished and beveled dauphines that are easily legible at a glance, and a long and slender sweep tracks the seconds. Framing the dial is a raised satin silver chapter with a subtle minute track that gives this piece a truly “all dial” appearance. Like other “water proof” references produced during and before 1966, Seiko’s “Dolphin” motif is embossed on the case back, and has not succumbed to the typical wear commonly observed. The case has tight lines and sharp angles that give it an almost faceted appearance. Stout, short lugs and a thicker profile provide a well balanced build that wears well on any wrist. It is completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, the gilt finished 6206B is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with a shingle gray suede with matched stitching for a perfect pairing in any setting. Well beyond the half century mark, this well preserved and difficult to source stunner is sure to be a front runner on any roster.

CNS Shingle Gray Suede with Gray Stitch

Serviced- 7/24

Diameter- 36mm

Lugs- 19mm