VINTAGE WATCH | KING SEIKO 4502-7010

King Seiko 4502-7010 Hi-Beat: A Legacy of Precision & Japanese Horological Ambition

The King Seiko 4502-7010 & Seiko’s Swiss Chronometer Triumph
Step into the 1970s, an era when King Seiko stood as Seiko’s crowning achievement, crafted to rival Swiss supremacy and elevate Japan’s watchmaking prowess. Born from Seiko’s bold vision to dominate global markets, the King Seiko line embodied precision, artistry, and innovation. The 4502-7010 is a direct descendant of this ambition, housing the groundbreaking 4500 High Beat movement—a spiritual successor to the legendary Lord Marvel 36000. This experimental calibre not only showcased Seiko’s technical mastery but paved the way for their historic victory in the Swiss Chronometer Competition, cementing Japan’s place in haute horology.

The Heartbeat of History: 4500 Hi-Beat Movement

At its core lies the 36,000vph Hi-Beat Calibre 4500, a rare hand-assembled marvel engineered by Seiko’s Daini Factory. As the final King Seiko to feature a 10-beat-per-second, entirely handcrafted movement, this watch represents the zenith of pre-automation Japanese craftsmanship. The 4500 series—shared with the revered Grand Seiko 45—was a critical player in Seiko’s chronometer conquests, blending relentless accuracy with artisanal skill. For collectors, its hybrid identity—experimental yet timeless, bold yet refined—makes it a cornerstone of vintage Seiko history.

Design Legacy: Bold Aesthetics Meets Timeless Elegance

The 4502-7010’s rare variant brushed cushion shape case and elongated lugs defy the understated norms of 1970s dress watches, offering a bold wrist presence coveted by modern enthusiasts. Its design language bridges Seiko’s pursuit of technical excellence and avant-garde aesthetics, with a wide profile that distinguishes it from later King Seiko and Grand Seiko models. Every facet reflects Daini Factory’s uncompromising standards—a testament to why this reference remains a holy grail for vintage Seiko collectors.

A Survivor in Stunning Condition: Tropical Charm & Originality

This particular King Seiko 4502-7010 defies its age, boasting a case with cushion shape case with a brushed finish, and an uncommonly linen dial. For years of Seiko vintage watch collecting, we think the watch dial is a rare prototype misprint by Seiko as the dial is marked as 5626 with the correct text and font and is not a reprint after reviewed by over 5 industrial speiclise of vintage Seiko. We are glad to offer such a one off find in our shop. The crystal is in perfect condition. It is a rare opportunity to own a flawlessly preserved artifact of Seiko’s golden age.

Own a Chapter of Horology’s Greatest Rivalry

The King Seiko 4502-7010 isn’t merely a watch—it’s a symbol of Japan’s audacious quest to redefine precision. Whether you’re a vintage Seiko enthusiast or a connoisseur of High Beat movements, this rare gem bridges history, artistry, and engineering. Seize the chance to wear a legacy.

Specification:

Maker: Seiko

Model: 4502-7010

Era: 1971 Nov

Case Diameter: 36 mm

Lug to Lug: 42 mm

Lug Width: 18 mm

Case Condition: Unpolished steel case in mint condition, the case and  the crystal is in mint condition without damage

Dial Condition: For years of Seiko vintage watch collecting, we think the watch dial is a rare prototype misprint by Seiko as the dial is marked as 5626 with the correct text correct dial configuration and correct print of 4502 features on the dial. The font on the dial is confirmed not a reprint and the dial is confirmed to be authentic after review by over 5 industrial specialists of vintage Seiko.

Movement: Manual winding Hi-Beat Movement 36,000bph (last King Seiko with a 36,000 bph movement), in running condition 

And of course, it comes with any color of our Kyoto Series Leather Straps. Just let us know which colour you like to pair the beauty up with.