With a case and dial layout that appear as though it were ripped right out of the gauge cluster of a Vietnam era helicopter, Seiko’s 6139-7030 is often compared to Omega’s venerable Speedy Pro. The dial is a soft but deep blue green and white tri-level with depth and character to spare. A recessed minute register sits beneath a well proportioned middle, and above that, a raised hour and minute track with long and lean hash marks. Framing it all is a steep chapter with tachymetric scaling. The hour and minute hands are black and white and seem to float above the dial, and the chronograph hands are finished in a flat white as well. The unpolished case is tightly contoured with short, sharp lugs and a recessed crown at three o’clock. The canister style bezel, along with the beveled hardlex, adds the right amount of height, and an overall military aesthetic that sets this piece apart in the 6139 lineup. The 6139B is keeping near perfect time post service, with a snappy responsiveness from the chronograph functions. This example from April of ‘72 is an absolute stunner. We’ve paired it with an olive drab RAF NATO that suits its militaristic aesthetic, and provides ample comfort on the wrist. It’s completely original aside from a NOS hardlex replacement crystal, and sure to be a fast favorite in any collection.

Clockwork Synergy Olive Drab Double Layer Two-Piece RAF NATO (clockworksynergy.com)

Serviced 3/19/19

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 19mm