Beyond its more sports and racing racing oriented chronographs within the 6139 lineup, Seiko also offered a few fringe pieces with a bit more “avant garde” styling. They can be tougher to track down, as most were Speed Timer variants that were only available to the Japanese market, but they are definitely worth the trouble. This 6139-8050 from May of ‘77 is a perfect example, in near perfect condition. The case is a orderly mix of both sweeping curves and crisp, cutting angles. The lugs are substantial and well detailed. Their sharp lines, however, move seamlessly into the roundness of the case through shared surfaces on the top and sides. A thin beveled bezel pulls it all together nicely, and frames an unforgettable combination of dial and hands. The dial is a deep ocean blue-green with a rich sunburst finish beneath a lacquered surface. Viewing it at different angles and under different lighting, it seems to almost change color. It’s set with polished applied markers that bevel toward the center and feature a bright white stripe through the center. A cushion shaped sub register in a satin grained silver totals the minutes, and a blaze orange sweep tracks the seconds. The hour and minute hands are broad syringes with mixed textures and finishes. The crystal is a correct NOS Seiko replacement “hardlex,” and is the only part not original to the watch. It sits on the original mixed link “Speed Timer” bracelet, though as it was a tad short, an extension has been added for length. The 21j 6139 is performing beautifully post service and the chronograph functions are crisp and responsive. 

Original Mixed Link “Speed Timer” Bracelet in Stainless Steel

Serviced 12/19/17