Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5625-7000 - Men - 1969

Now available at auction from Second Vintage The King Seiko represents the pinnacle of Seiko's mid-century watchmaking prowess, born from the legendary internal rivalry between the Daini and Suwa factories. This King Seiko Hi-Beat reference 5625-7000 embodies the renowned Grammar of Design principles with its sharp, angular case lines and flat surfaces designed to catch the light. Boasting a high-beat automatic movement and a meticulously finished dial, this piece stands as a testament to the golden era of Japanese horology, offering collectors a beautifully preserved example of a true classic. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5625-7000 Serial Number: 947535 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5625 Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, presenting in exceptionally clean condition with minimal signs of aging Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1969 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a highly preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a striking silver sunburst that plays beautifully with the light, exhibiting a remarkably clean surface devoid of significant spotting, moisture marks, or discoloration. Applied faceted baton indices feature black central inserts that provide excellent legibility and contrast against the bright dial. The applied Seiko and KS logos are crisp and prominent, complemented by the sharply printed Automatic and Hi-Beat text alongside the Suwa factory symbol. The date aperture at the three o'clock position is framed by a pristine applied metallic border. The sharp dauphine hands echo the design of the indices with their own black central stripes, remaining in excellent condition with no visible oxidation or degradation. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case showcases the iconic Taro Tanaka Grammar of Design styling, characterized by broad, flat polished surfaces and sharp, angular lugs. The transition between the brushed and polished finishes remains well-defined, indicating respectful wear over the decades. The case flanks and bezel display honest, superficial handling marks consistent with its vintage nature, but no deep scratches or signs of heavy over-polishing. The original KS signed crown is present and features crisp relief. Turning the watch over reveals a beautifully preserved solid gold KS medallion embedded in the caseback, alongside clear and legible factory engravings. The crystal is clear and well-preserved, offering an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath with only the faintest signs of surface wear. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Seiko automatic caliber 5625, a high-beat movement celebrated for its engineering and smooth sweeping seconds. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -52 to -59 s/d. Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching, secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle. The strap pairs elegantly with the sharp aesthetics of the case and provides a comfortable fit for daily wear. Condition This piece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally clean and well-preserved, standing out as a premier feature of the watch. The case retains its factory-intended geometry with sharp lugs and clear transitions between finishes, alongside a fully intact gold caseback medallion. The watch shows normal, honest wear appropriate for its age, without any detracting damage. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic and versatile vintage profile that rests perfectly on the wrist. Remarks The preservation of the gold KS medallion and the remarkable cleanliness of the dial make this 5625-7000 a particularly compelling acquisition. It captures the essence of Seiko's ambition during the late 1960s to produce world-class luxury timepieces. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the 56KS series marked a significant evolution in the King Seiko lineage, introducing an automatic high-beat movement to the prestigious line. Developed by the Suwa Seikosha factory, these watches were designed to compete directly with the finest Swiss chronometers of the era. The implementation of the Grammar of Design rules ensured that King Seiko watches were not only mechanically superior but also visually striking, with cases designed to reflect light from every angle. Today, the King Seiko remains a cornerstone of vintage Japanese watch collecting, revered for its historical significance and enduring aesthetic appeal. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAK-0005