Seiko - Sportmatic Deluxe 幽晶 – Yūshō – Phantom Crystal - No reserve price - 7619-9010 - Men - 1966

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This 1966 Seiko Sportmatic Deluxe is a distinguished example of mid-century Japanese horology, representing a higher tier within the famous Seiko 5 lineage. Known for its "Jumbo" 38mm case profile, which was larger than many of its contemporaries, the Sportmatic Deluxe offers a substantial presence on the wrist while maintaining classic elegance. This specific example features the desirable "Dolphin" caseback and the unique dedicated date-pusher at the 2 o'clock position, a quirk beloved by vintage Seiko collectors. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportmatic Deluxe Reference Number: 7619-9010 Serial Number: 6501738 Movement: Automatic Caliber 7619A Dial: Silver sunburst Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1966 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest aesthetic with case wear consistent with its age, while the dial remains remarkably clean and attractive. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is the highlight of this timepiece, preserved in beautiful condition with a bright, radial finish. It features substantial applied block indices that catch the light dynamically. The signature "Seiko 5" shield logo is applied at 12 o'clock, with "Deluxe" written in script above the 6 o'clock position. The dauphine-style hour and minute hands are silver-toned, complemented by a striking blued steel seconds hand that adds a pop of color. A framed day-date window sits at 3 o'clock, contributing to the dial's balanced layout. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 38mm, offering a modern wearing experience despite its vintage origins. The case architecture features the characteristic hidden crown at 4 o'clock, streamlining the silhouette, and a dedicated push-button at 2 o'clock for the quickset date function. The case shows visible signs of history, including surface scratches and marks throughout the bezel and lugs, with a noticeable ding near the pusher, which attests to its life as a worn tool watch. The screw-down caseback prominently features the embossed Dolphin icon, a symbol of water resistance specifications from this era, along with clear reference and serial engravings. The crystal is clear and presents well. Movement Powering this Deluxe model is the robust Seiko Caliber 7619A automatic movement. This 25-jewel mechanism features Diashock protection and is highly regarded for its durability. The movement is clean and is running within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching and a silver-tone buckle. The strap is supple and complements the monochromatic tones of the dial and case perfectly, ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is graded in Good vintage condition. While the case shows clear evidence of use including scratches and dings consistent with a watch from the 1960s, the dial remains in excellent preservation, free from heavy staining or damage. The integrity of the case lines remains intact, and the watch retains a charming, honest character. Dimensions The case diameter is 38 mm excluding the crown, with a lug-to-lug length that ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes. The lug width is standard for the era, allowing for easy strap changes if desired. Remarks The Sportmatic Deluxe "5" is often considered a sweet spot in vintage Seiko collecting due to its upgraded 7619 movement and larger case size compared to standard Sportmatics. The combination of the clean silver dial, the blued seconds hand, and the functionality of the date pusher makes this a technically interesting and visually appealing piece. It captures the essence of 1960s "Grammar of Design" evolution before it was fully formalized. History Introduced in the mid-1960s, the Sportmatic Deluxe series was positioned as a premium offering within the Seiko 5 family. The "5" attributes—automatic winding, day/date display, water resistance, recessed crown, and durable case construction—set a new standard for affordable luxury. This particular model dates to May 1966, a period when Seiko was rapidly establishing itself as a world-class manufacture capable of rivaling Swiss counterparts in both precision and design. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSD-0028