Following the success of the 62MAS, the first real attempt at a dive watch worthy of the classification, Seiko would go on to build a legacy as a diver focused brand willing to set, meet, and surpass whatever milestones were dropped in the water in front of them. This approach was bound to ensure that history was made and icons were created. The 6105 is certainly much of both. Though the mention likely brings to mind the 8110/9 worn by Capt. Willard in Kubrick’s ‘Apocalypse Now,’ the former 8000/9 is viewed by many as the better 6105. I’d be hard pressed to choose a side in this fight, but the first to admit the 8000 certainly has its merits. Where the latter is housed in a massive, and at times, cumbersome asymmetrical case, the earlier variant calls a bold but sleek “C” shaped tonneau home. A full 4mm narrower, its a perfect 41mm. The bezel shares a similar height and coin edge appearance that offers a strong profile, but we’ll give this win to the “Willard” for the click bearing action over the friction ring design of the 8000. The large 6.5mm “SEIKO” crown is a carry over from the 62MAS, but has been repositioned to 4 o’clock, and sits in a snug recess that keeps it well protected, and comfortable on the wrist. Unlike the 8110, however, the 8000 crown has no lock mechanism. In the end, our recommendation is to choose both, especially considering this very early example from April of 1968. The textured matte black dial is virtually flawless. It’s framed by a bold silver minute track, and the hour markers are deep, polished rectangular wells brimming with luminous. The original luminous material is present throughout, and has developed the most appealing copper patina we’ve ever witnessed. The polished hour and minute hands have retained their original mirror finish, and the long “stoplight” sweep nearly touches the chapter. The luminous material in the hands is a perfect match to the hour markers, aside from the soft pink of the lower sweep window. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction with just enough friction to firmly stay in place once set. The insert shows only light wear, and the patina of the large luminous pip at zero is in line with the dial and hands. It’s unpolished and completely original including the “hardlex” crystal which has been carefully hand polished with cerium oxide to remove most blemishes. As this is an early variant, it houses the 6105A (non-hacking) movement, and post service it’s keeping near perfect time, and the date can be quickset via the crown. The deep factory finishes and corners are super sharp, and the case back exhibits only minor wear. We’ve paired it with an Uncle Seiko reproduction “Waffle” strap for a vintage, original feel with a modern fit and finish. An historic Seiko diver “grail” with mouthwatering patina, this one is sure to be the highlight of any lineup.

Uncle Seiko Reproduction “Waffle” Black Composite

Serviced 12/23

Diameter- 41mm

Lugs- 19mm