Late last year Seiko unveiled the SPB411 Navigator Timer, and as reissues go, it’s about as faithful to the original as it’s possible to get. Understandably, it would have been difficult to improve on perfection as the 6117-8000 that served as inspiration is an icon. A monochromatic masterpiece, it features a charcoal gray sunburst dial with a glossy lacquer finish, a stacking chapter ring with minute hashes and large luminous plots at the hours, and a wide coin edge bezel with a sterile 24 hour insert. It’s minimal and understated, and that’s exactly what makes it the perfect tool watch. This example from October of ‘68 is fantastic. Despite a few very light blemishes on the lacquer surface, the dial is hypnotizing, and the heavy sunburst grain beneath the finish creates a radial light show with every turn of the wrist. The glossy black chapter is contrasted with matte silver minute hashes, and the luminous plots at the hours are free of any degradation. The large  hour and minute batons are legible at a glance, and have retained their original mirror finish. The bright red 24 hour hand is the only spot of color amid the grayscale layout, and it is free of any chipping or paint loss. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction, and the spring has been adjusted to provide just enough tension to remain set in position . The insert shows only light wear, and very little fading of the printed Arabic hours and bars in black. The luminous pip is the original, and its acrylic lens is still intact. The case is crisp and unpolished, and the factory finishes and corners are still well defined. We’ve paired it with an oiled brown leather for a clean and versatile finish that’s comfortable on the wrist. It’s completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service is keeping near perfect time. Robust as it is rare, its sure to be highlight wherever it lands. 

CNS Premium Oiled Brown Leather with White Stitch

Serviced- 6/24

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 19mm