Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5626-5010 - Men - 1970

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This distinguished King Seiko exemplifies the bold design language and horological ambition of Japan’s golden era of watchmaking. Emerging from the legendary internal rivalry between the Suwa and Daini factories, the King Seiko line was conceived to push the boundaries of precision and finishing. This specific reference showcases a captivating square case architecture that perfectly captures the transitional aesthetic of the early 1970s, blending sharp geometry with refined mechanical prowess. Driven by a celebrated high-frequency movement, it remains a compelling testament to Seiko’s dedication to uncompromising quality and enduring style. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5626-5010 Serial Number: 042732 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626 Dial: Silver vertically brushed dial, exceptionally clean with minimal signs of age Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp, factory-defined case lines Dial and Hands The dial presents a striking silver surface characterized by a delicate vertical brushed texture that interacts beautifully with the light. The typography is precise, featuring the applied Seiko and KS logos alongside crisp black printed text denoting the automatic and Hi-Beat specifications. The applied baton indices are faceted and feature black inserts that enhance legibility, perfectly matched by the sharp dauphine hands which also carry black central striping. A framed day-date aperture at the three o'clock position displays an English and Kanji day wheel. Carefully inspecting the dial reveals an exceptionally clean surface, free of significant moisture marks, spotting, or surface damage, showing only the faintest, honest signs of natural aging near the extreme outer edges. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel case features a robust, square profile that commands presence on the wrist. The top surfaces of the case display prominent, heavy vertical brushing that seamlessly aligns with the texture of the dial, while the flanks transition cleanly to a high polish. The lug profile retains excellent sharpness, with well-defined factory edges and clear transitions between the contrasting finishes. Honest signs of wear, including superficial handling marks and light surface scratches, are present but do not detract from the strong architectural integrity of the case. The solid caseback is deeply engraved with the King Seiko branding, reference numbers, and the Suwa factory symbol, all remaining highly legible. The watch is fitted with a flat crystal that provides an undistorted view of the dial, showing minimal wear. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Seiko caliber 5626 automatic Hi-Beat movement, a cornerstone of the King Seiko lineage known for its refined engineering and smooth sweep. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results reflect a consistent performance of +20 to +24 seconds per day, demonstrating the enduring mechanical health of this classic Suwa-produced caliber. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and contrasting white stitching. The strap is secured with a traditional stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the sharp, monochromatic aesthetic of the timepiece. Condition Excellent vintage condition. This King Seiko has been remarkably well-preserved, displaying light handling marks and minimal signs of heavy use. The dial remains remarkably fresh, and the case retains its crisp lines and distinct original finishing techniques, making it a highly attractive example for collectors. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The square proportions provide a substantial footprint, allowing it to wear with a commanding yet elegant presence. Remarks Finding a square-cased King Seiko with such a well-preserved vertically brushed dial and sharp case lines is increasingly uncommon. This reference beautifully merges the robust high-frequency engineering of the 56KS family with a distinct, character-rich design that stands out in any vintage collection. History Introduced in the 1960s as a direct counterpart to Grand Seiko, the King Seiko collection was instrumental in driving Seiko’s pursuit of chronometric perfection. The 56KS series, produced by the Suwa Seikosha facility, represented a pinnacle of automated precision and elegant case design. These watches were built to offer world-class accuracy and sophisticated finishing, cementing Seiko's reputation on the global stage and leaving a legacy that continues to captivate enthusiasts today. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKH-0026