A stainless steel Seiko automatic diving watch on a vintage "Tropic" style rubber strap. This model is the smallest size that Seiko made in this diving range. Measuring in at 33mm across, not including the crown, this model was introduced more for the ladies market, at the time. However, being a thick case, thanks to the patented "Hardex" crystal, strong case, and deep coin edged bi-directional bezel, it wears larger than the size may suggest. This model has a dial that is reminiscent of the Rolex Submariner dials that arrived in the 1980's with the metal surrounds to the luminous plots. This is interesting from a design perspective, as the watch predates Rolex by around a decade.
The design of this watch is a departure from the other Seiko dive watches in that the case has the screw down crown located at the more conventional three o'clock position with crown guard. This was normally located at the four o'clock position. This dial layout is quite different from other Seiko dive watches, aside from the lollipop sweep. The arrow marker at twelve o'clock seems different due to the addition of the metal casing to the luminous material. The classic sword and arrow handset are replaced with more of a pencil design, and the white printed "Professional" text sitting above the Diani-Seikosha symbol above the six o'clock marker on the dial is a departure from the "Water Resist". The Diani-Seikosha symbol represents the factory from which this watch was designed and produced.
This charming watch is full of character, and design detail that is very appealing. Many of these watches were powered by quartz movements. However, this more unusual example is powered by a high beat caliber 2205 automatic movement. Aside from being a higher quality offering, the sweep seconds hand moves at six times per second, as apposed to the more clunky one with the quartz alternative. Once fully wound, it should run for approximately thirty two hours, once taken off the wrist. The watch also features a "quick set" date changing function by pulling the crown out one step, once unscrewed from the case. The small date window is found to the left of the three o'clock marker.
This watch overall is in superb condition. There is light wear to the case, but nothing to distract. The same can be said for the bezel, and the dial and hand set are perfect. This watch was made in September of 1976. This model seems to have been designed to sit alongside the men's 6105 reference, made famous for appearing on the wrist of Captain Willard in the film; 'Apocalypse Now'. A rare opportunity to buy a rare model, and great looking piece of Japanese watch making history.
