As the world brought their greatest athletes to Tokyo for the 1964 Olympic Games, Seiko brought the world to the wrists of the watch wearing public. The World Time was the perfect way to commemorate the games, and in addition to the model and serial number, the case back was also embossed with the Olympic torch. This example from May of '64 is an absolute stunner. The silvery white linen dial is phenomenal. At its border is a split bi-color 24 hour track, and it’s framed by a matte silver rotating “Cities of the World" bezel with sleek red trim. The hands have retained their bright polished finish, and are free of oxidation or corrosion. The GMT cursor hand is solid black, and free of chipping or paint loss. The case architecture is classically shaped and serves as merely a frame for the dial aside from neatly proportioned lugs. The large, knurled crown positioned at 4 o’clock allows for a comfortable fit against the wrist, and can be rotated in either direction to position the inner bezel. The date can be quickset by rotating the crown counter-clockwise in the second position. As is the case with most of these variants, the case back etching has been heavily worn over time. The engraved serial number is clearly legible, but the torch and other markings show significant wear. In an effort to preserve the remaining details, I’ve applied a static cling cover to the embossed portion of the case back. It’s unpolished and all original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with an oiled tobacco suede with olive stitching for a clean and casual fit and finish. A remarkable convergence of Seiko and Olympic history, this one is sure to be a fast favorite wherever it lands.

CNS Oiled Tobacco Suede with Olive Stitch

Serviced- 11/24

Diameter- 37.5mm

Lugs- 19mm