Seiko - Seikomatic Weekdater 珠光 (Shūkō) – Pearl Light - No reserve price - 6218-8970 - Men - 1965

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Seikomatic Weekdater is a superb example of high-grade Japanese watchmaking from the mid-1960s. Often regarded as a foundational model that bridged the gap between standard automatics and the prestigious Grand Seiko line, the reference 6218-8970 combines robust engineering with elegant design. Featuring a distinct day display at the six o'clock position and a beautifully preserved 35-jewel movement, this timepiece offers collectors a chance to own a significant piece of Seiko history that remains stylish and wearable today. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic Weekdater Reference Number: 6218-8970 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6218B Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1965 Condition: Good vintage condition Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in exceptional condition, retaining a bright and crisp finish that catches the light beautifully. The applied multi-faceted baton hour markers and sharp Dauphine hands are highly legible and polished. The dial features the signature full-day window at the six o'clock position and a date window at three o'clock, both framed in polished metal. The text "Seiko Weekdater" and "Seikomatic Diashock 35 Jewels" is sharp and intact. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 37mm and features the model's characteristic twisted lugs and a recessed crown located at the four o'clock position, designed to emphasize the automatic nature of the movement. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, with visible scratches and surface marks throughout the polished areas and lugs, consistent with its age. The caseback features the Seiko dolphin emblem and model specifications, though the engravings have become worn and faint over decades of wear. Movement Powering the watch is the impressive Seiko Caliber 6218B automatic movement. This high-grade, 35-jewel movement was one of Seiko's finest of the era, visible in the photos appearing clean and featuring gold-tone highlights on the rotor and bridge text. The movement is running within vintage tolerances, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a vintage-style high quality distressed brown leather strap featuring contrasting yellow stitching. The strap leather has a rugged texture that complements the steel mechanics of the watch, secured by a steel pin buckle. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case shows expected surface wear and the caseback engraving is heavily faded, the dial and hands are preserved to a very high standard. The movement is clean and functional, presenting an honest and attractive example of this specific reference. Dimensions The case diameter is 37mm excluding the hidden crown, with a lug-to-lug length that provides a substantial presence on the wrist. The lug width accommodates standard straps, making it versatile for styling. Remarks The Seikomatic Weekdater reference 6218-8970 is highly prized by collectors for its 35-jewel movement, which shared architecture with the chronometer-grade movements of the time. The combination of the "Weekdater" layout and the recessed crown gives it a unique symmetrical appeal that stands out among vintage dress watches. History Introduced in the early 1960s, the Seikomatic line was Seiko's bid to assert dominance in automatic watch manufacturing. The 6218 caliber found in this Weekdater was a high-end implementation, showcasing Seiko's ability to mass-produce accurate, jewel-heavy movements. This specific model from 1965 predates the widespread quartz revolution and stands as a testament to the golden age of mechanical watchmaking in Japan. /Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SMW-0008