1969 JDM Seiko 6139-6000 Automatic 5 Sports Speed Timer “Pogue” (Proof)
1969 JDM Seiko 6139-6000 Automatic 5 Sports Speed Timer “Pogue” (Proof)
I’ll dispense with a lengthy overview and history of this one. If your trembling fingers have “clicked” this far, I’m going to assume the dust covered spot in your rotation, that you’ve faithfully held awaiting this very opportunity, demands only the pertinent details before it can be filled. Other than the crystal and bracelet, this unreal example from May of 1969 is absolutely original. The case is unpolished, and the factory finishes are beautifully preserved. The corners are razor sharp, and the case is the correct “notched” (over the crown) construction. The “T” dial is spectacular. There is some light oxidation around the lip of the minute register, as is typical, but there is not a single blemish or “freckle” otherwise. The luminous material on the hour markers is the original, and incredibly clean. The markers show no oxidation or corrosion, and have retained their bright mirror finish. The dial printing is flawless and free of “bleeding,” and the colors are crisp with no fading. The hour and minute hands are free of oxidation or corrosion, and have the correct “frosted” finish. They still house the original luminous in the windows, and there is some visible color in the lower portion of the minute hand. The chronograph sweep is the correct “two-piece” design with the “button” stud collet. The sweep and the tear drop minute totaler are free of chipping or paint loss, and both reset to dead zero. The inner bezel is the correct early style with the scalloped edge (not visible without removal) and larger luminous plot at zero with no black border. It’s an intense, vivid yellow with no visible fading from UV exposure, and an almost perfect color match to the dial. The dimpled crown, stem, spring, and gear are original, and the inner bezel rotates smoothly in either direction. The time setting, and day/date quickset (English/Kanji) operate smoothly. The case back (proof) is free from any tool marring, and screws down tightly to protect the movement. Driving the hands is the correct 21 jewel, JDM variant of the 6139A, and has the correct red inlay on the balance bridge and autowind framework. Post service, it’s keeping time to within just a few seconds per day, and all functions are operating as they should. It arrived with no bracelet, and my aim was to keep it as visually close to original as possible. I sourced a reproduction 6139 “Speed Timer” bracelet from Uncle Seiko for its high quality construction, and its near identical appearance and dimensions to the original. I replaced the stock clasp with a period correct, genuine Seiko “5 Sports Speed Timer” clasp, and folding blades. The clasp and blades are a seamless fit, and add another piece of originality to this incredible piece of Seiko history. This Speed Timer is among the best we’ve ever seen, and only the second opportunity in our history we’ve had one to offer. It’s wrist ready, and will undoubtedly provide many more years of reliable service. A grail above, it’s sure to be the absolute highlight of any vintage Seiko collection.
Uncle Seiko “Speed Timer” Bracelet with Genuine Seiko “Speed Timer” Clasp and Blades
Serviced 12/23
Diameter- 41mm
Lugs- 19mm