Remember five minutes ago when you hadn’t yet realized you needed a black and gold vintage chronograph? It’s time to meet the watch that influenced your newly found position. Sharing a model number with it’s arguably more famous black and white brother, this black and gold variant of the 8020 model is often referred to as the “Black Panda.” Cooler nickname aside, it is a stand alone stunner that would make even the hardest core steel fan a convert. This one from May of ‘76 is a perfect example of how. The dial is a textured matte black with recessed registers and beveled applied indexes trimmed in satin gold ink throughout. In perfect contrast, the hour, minute, and chronograph hands pop from the dial in a bright flat white. A matching tachymetric scale frames the dial and flows seamlessly into the well proportioned bezel. The case is classic Seiko architecture with an almost faceted appearance. Flat surfaces and crisp lines capped in a polished gold finish make this one well balanced and subdued enough to keep it on the right side of the line between class and flash. As it typical of gold plated models, there are a few signs of wear through on the bottom of the case, but it faces up beautifully. One of the pushers also exhibits some wear on the corners and one side, but is still functional and we’d rather leave it as original as possible. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal. The 6138 driving the hands is keeping near perfect time post service, and the chronograph functions are flawless. We’ve attached it to a smooth black grain leather with white stitching that offers a seamless classic finish and comfort on the wrist. Bringing literal meaning to a “golden opportunity,” this black panda deserves a spot in any rotation and will not disappoint on performance. 

Kvarnsjo Leather Black Smooth Grain Leather with White Stitching (cheapestnatostraps.com)

Serviced 6/1/19

Diameter- 41mm

Lugs- 19mm