When Seiko began development of their first core quartz diver, they didn’t have to look far for inspiration. In fact, the 6309 had only been in production for two years when the first 7548’s rolled off the production line in late 1978. Bearing more than a passing resemblance to the 6309-7290, the 7548-7000 shares an almost identical case, and the bezel, insert, crown, crystal retaining ring, and crystal are all interchangeable between both styles. And if architectural similarities were all there were, it would no doubt be a great watch by default. However, Seiko did as Seiko does, and quite literally built a quartz driven 6309 movement. With the case back removed, one look tells you all you need to know about early Seiko quartz movements. They were not plastic disposable machines to be quickly swapped out at the first sign of trouble, but beautifully, if not overly, engineered movements with jeweled pivots and precisely machined plates. Removing the dial and hands reveals a calendar and keyless works that could easily be mistaken for a 6309. Rather than cousins, these two calibres are brothers. One battery driven, and one spring driven, each as capable as they are impressive. From January of 1981, this no frills tool watch with JDM creds, is a prime example of the serviceability and robust build quality of Seiko’s early quartz divers. My initial inspection of the movement revealed that a corroding battery had seemingly caused irreparable damage to portions of the movement. I carefully cleaned every component, and replaced the damaged train wheels, coil, and partially fouled date disk. A worthwhile labor of love, to save an otherwise spectacular piece. The dial is a spotless matte black with large luminous plots, and the hour and minute hands are carry overs from its predecessors. The second hand, however, is a black and white reverse “lollipop” with a large pip at the end of the tail. The bezel rotates smoothly with a firm click in either direction, and the insert shows very little wear. The case is unpolished and its factory finishes are still clearly visible. The crown and case back screw down tightly with ample threading to protect the freshly rebuilt and serviced 7548. It offers independent quickset of both the day and date, hacking seconds, and with a fresh battery installed, it’s keeping perfect time. We’ve paired it with a repro GL-831 flat vent composite strap for a fit and finish very close to the original. A Seiko diving first with a JDM pedigree, it’s sure to be a fast favorite on any roster. 

Repro GL-831 Flat Vent Black Composite Rubber

Serviced- 9/24

Diameter- 42mm

Lugs- 22mm