Seiko King Seiko Hi-Beat 5626-5010 (1970)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This sought-after square King Seiko variant immediately commands attention with its distinctive 1970s case geometry and exceptionally well-preserved silver sunburst dial. Featuring a highly legible layout, a desirable English and Kanji day wheel, and a Hi-Beat automatic movement, this 5626-5010 reference offers collectors a striking and visually compelling example of vintage Japanese design. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Reference Number: 5626-5010 Serial Number: 048078 Movement: Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices Case Size: 35mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +30+35s/day, running strong and steady. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in excellent, well-preserved condition, remaining highly legible and visually striking. Applied baton indices feature black central accents that coordinate perfectly with the sharp dauphine hands, which also display matching black central stripes and clean surfaces free of obvious oxidation or corrosion. The printing is crisp with no visible loss, and there is no significant staining, spotting, or moisture damage visible on the dial surface. A practical day-date aperture at three o'clock displays the day in both English and Japanese Kanji. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a distinctive square profile that embodies the bold aesthetic shifts of 1970s King Seiko design. The case displays honest wear, with polished surfaces showing moderate scratches and scuffs consistent with age. The case edges remain relatively defined but show visible signs of wear. A small knurled crown sits neatly at the three o'clock position. The flat crystal exhibits minor surface scratches visible in certain reflections. Movement Powered by a King Seiko Hi-Beat automatic movement, indicated by the dial text and the 5626 caliber designation. The timegrapher records a rate of +30+35s/day. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Strap The watch is fitted with a black textured leather strap featuring white contrast stitching. It appears new or very lightly used and provides a highly attractive pairing for the square steel case. Condition Good vintage condition. The stainless steel case displays honest wear, with moderate scratches and scuffs on the polished surfaces, while retaining relatively defined edges. The silver sunburst dial and hands are in excellent condition, showing crisp printing and clean surfaces. The flat crystal has minor surface scratches visible under certain lighting. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Dimensions The case measures 35mm, excluding the crown. Remarks This King Seiko 5626-5010 stands out for its highly desirable square case and excellent dial preservation. The inclusion of the English and Kanji day wheel alongside the Hi-Beat automatic movement makes this a compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese watchmaking. History The King Seiko line represents a high point in Seiko's mechanical watchmaking during the mid-twentieth century, created to compete at the highest levels of accuracy and finishing. By 1970, the 56KS series introduced reliable, high-beat automatic calibers that became celebrated for their performance and day-date functionality. The square-cased 5626-5010 reference marks a distinct design departure from the traditional round cases of the era, reflecting the bold and experimental aesthetic shifts of the early 1970s while maintaining the rigorous standards expected of the King Seiko name. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-KXX-0004