Though we typically only offer vintage mechanical watches, it’s hard to ignore the allure of a quartz watch that started a revolution. At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and designs so far removed from tradition that they were hardly recognizable as wrist watches, Seiko took a step backwards in order to bring watch design forward. Introduced in 1983, the 7A28 was the worlds first analog quartz chronograph, and to say they got it right is an understatement. It is a 15 jewel movement devoid of a single piece of plastic. It can be regulated to dial in performance, and was built in a way that allowed for the replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today. Two years later, in 1984, the 7A38 was introduced. Just like its predecessor, the design allowed for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and a tenth of a second totaler. The center seconds is stationary unless the chronograph is engaged, at which point it measures elapsed seconds for the chronograph. In addition, there was now a day and date window nestled neatly into the 1/10 second sub register. Either can be set independently via the crown in the second position. Along with this new feature, a whole host of new designs was now available to suit any taste. If you are unfamiliar with this movement, we can all but bet that a little research will have you ready to track down your own. In the last couple of years, collectibility for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. This rare and early model from November of 1984 was too clean to pass up. In Black PVD with gold highlights, it has a military layout with undeniable presence. The dial is matte black with charcoal gray inset sub registers. In contrast, the hour, minute, and chronograph hands are all sand blasted steel. The applied markers are finished with bright white luminous that’s free of any color or degradation. A raised minute track chapter frames the dial and provides a seamless transition into the bezel insert. The “count up” insert itself shows almost no wear, and the bezel with its satin gold knurled, rotates in either direction with a satisfying click. The finish on the case has no wear through, and the corners and bevels are all crisp. It comes attached to the original “SQ” three-link PVD bracelet that has also aged incredibly well. Aside from a few spots on the edges of the lower links and clasp, the PVD finish is almost completely intact. This one is completely original right down to the hardlex crystal. The 7A38 was carefully serviced and inspected, and a fresh battery was installed. It’s keeping precise time, and the chronograph functions are operating perfectly. A rare variant, this one is sure to be a conversation starter. 

Original Seiko “SQ” Three-Link PVD Bracelet in Stainless Steel 

Serviced 5/16/19

Diameter- 37mm

Lugs- 18mm