Vintage Watch | Seiko 6139 Speedtimer
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$580.00 USD
Sale price$490.00 USD
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The Seiko 6139: A Pioneering Automatic Chronograph
The history of the world's first automatic chronograph is a matter of great debate among watch enthusiasts. While the Zenith El Primero and the Swiss joint force Caliber 11 often claim the spotlight, the Seiko 6139 movement, which was launched in the same year, deserves equal recognition as the first automatic movement.
In 1969, Zenith announced its groundbreaking El Primero, while the Swiss joint force revealed the Caliber 11 in August of the same year. However, on the other side of the globe in May 1969, Seiko quietly introduced its Seiko 6139 movement, making it technically the first manufacturer to launch an automatic chronograph watch in the market.
Unique Features of the Seiko 6139 Movement
The 6139 movement sets itself apart from its contemporaries with a few distinct features:
- Dial Layout: Unlike the El Primero and Caliber 11, the Seiko 6139 features only one sub-dial, indicating a 30-minute register at the 6 o'clock position.
- Crown and Actuators: The watch crown sits flush inside the case, with only the chronograph actuators protruding at the edges. Because Seiko want to emphasis on the automatic feature of the watch and means the watch does not need a crown to wind.
- Day-Date Complication: The 6139 comes equipped with a day-date complication that can be quickly set by pressing the crown firmly into the case. However, due to the age of the movement, many 6139 models have lost this quick-set function as a result of a broken setting wheel. This example we offer have a fully functional quick set.
- Column Wheel Chronograph: The 6139's column wheel chronograph engages smoothly but firmly, outperforming many of today's entry-level chronograph movements.
A Testament to Seiko's Ingenuity
The Seiko 6139 movement serves as a testament to the brand's innovative spirit and commitment to excellence in watchmaking. As the first automatic chronograph watch launched in the market in 1969, it holds a special place in horological history.
This particular Seiko 6139-8002 we offering today fitted with a reverse panda silver subdial for the 30 mins chronograph and a orange second hand that pops from the dial.
The case is a bulk cushion case with its original brush finish and original bracelet coming with the watch. The overall condition of the watch is epic!
Specification:
Maker: Seiko
Model: 6139 - 8000
Era: 1971
Case Diameter: 39 mm (without crown)
Lug to Lug: 42 mm
Lug Width: 18 mm
Case Condition: Bulk cushion case with its original brush finish and original bracelet
Dial Condition: Black dial with a reverse panda silver subdial and contrast orange second hand.
Movement: Fully serviced in Japan , Cal. 6139B Japan - 17 Jewels
Operating Instruction: Day: quickset by pushing the crown deeper, 2 languages. Date: quickset by pushing the crown less deep
