Much of what continues to make Seiko an enduring standard for mechanical timepieces the world over began in 1963 with the introduction of the Sportsmatic 5. Practical and robust, it was built to withstand the rigors of daily wear by meeting five fundamental requirements: a self-winding movement, a recessed crown at four, a shared day/date window, water resistant construction, and a durable (typically stainless steel) case. This utilitarian approach did not, however, require a compromise on aesthetics. Classic midcentury layouts with thoughtful features meant an end result that was as useful as it was attractive. The Sportsmatic 5 was an instant success, and quickly became a best seller worldwide. By 1966, it was reported that the number of Seiko “Five” models exported from Japan exceeded the total number of self-winding watches in all of Switzerland.

This Sportsmatic 5 Super from July of 1966 is packed with undeniable presence and sound reliability. The cushion tonneau case has crisp corners, well proportioned drilled lugs, and is topped with a polished bezel over a radial finish. The crosshair dial is a silver white sunburst with a matte lacquer finish, and it’s framed by a machined chapter with minute hashes and bold polished monuments at the hours. A framed day/date window is positioned at three, and is balanced nicely against the “SEIKO” badging at nine. The hour and minute hands are wide batons with a mirror finish and beveled edges, and counting the seconds is a fishtail sweep. The etched case back has retained all of its markings, and is free of tool marring. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, it’s keeping time to within a few seconds per day. The date can be quick set by depressing the crown, and the day is slow set in either direction. We’ve paired it with an oiled Sienna suede with white stitching for a clean casual combo that’s ready for any occasion. A milestone in Seiko history, the Sportsmatic is deserving of a regular spot in any vintage rotation.

CNS Heritage Oiled Sienna Suede with White Stitch

Serviced 6/23

Diameter- 36mm

Lugs- 18mm