Seiko - Sportsmatic Calendar 典光 – Tenkō – Classical Light - No reserve price - J13057 - Men - 1962

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Sportsmatic Calendar from the early 1960s serves as a fantastic example of the Japanese manufacturer's rise to dominance in the automatic watch market. Featuring the distinctive hidden crown at the 4 o'clock position—a design choice intended to emphasize the efficiency of the automatic winding system—this piece combines practicality with mid-century elegance. The "Water Proof" dial text and the dolphin engraving on the caseback are desirable traits for collectors of vintage Seikos, representing the brand's early strides in case durability. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportsmatic Calendar Reference Number: J13057 Serial Number: 201304 Movement: Seikosha Automatic Cal. 790 Dial: Silver sunburst with vertical brushing Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1962 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest aesthetic with visible wear to the case consistent with its age, while the dial remains remarkably clean and attractive. Dial and Hands The dial features a sophisticated silver finish with a subtle vertical brushed texture that adds depth and character under different lighting conditions. It is adorned with polished applied baton indices and sharp dauphine hands, which are characteristic of Seiko's 1960s design language. The text "Seiko Sportsmatic Calendar" and "Water Proof Diashock 19 Jewels" is crisp and legible. A framed date window sits at the 3 o'clock position. The dial surface is well-preserved with only minor signs of aging. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36mm in diameter, offering a classic fit for a variety of wrist sizes. The case exhibits visible scratches and handling marks throughout, particularly on the lugs and bezel, which is expected for a watch of this vintage. The signature recessed crown at the 4 o'clock position is tucked neatly into the case profile. The caseback features the iconic dolphin (porpoise) etching, though it has faded due to wear over the decades, along with the reference and serial numbers. The acrylic crystal appears clear and presents well. Movement Powering the watch is a 19-jewel Seikosha automatic movement, Caliber 790. The rotor is marked clearly with the Seikosha and Sportsmatic branding. Monitoring data indicates a variance of approximately -49 to -55 seconds per day, which indicates a functioning movement that is reliable for a vintage timepiece of this era. Strap The watch is fitted with a new brown leather strap featuring contrasting stitching and a silver-tone pin buckle, complementing the warm tones of the vintage dial. Condition This piece is in good vintage condition. While the steel case shows evident history through surface scratches and dings, the structural integrity remains sound. The dial is the highlight, remaining bright and legible. The movement is winding and running, offering reliable vintage performance. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the crown. The lug width accommodates standard vintage straps, making it versatile for different style preferences. Remarks This J13057 reference is a significant model in the Sportsmatic lineage. The "SMAC" stamp is visible on the inside of the caseback, confirming its authenticity. The hidden crown design is a conversation starter and a beloved feature among Seiko enthusiasts. History Introduced in the early 1960s, the Sportsmatic line was Seiko's effort to bring affordable, high-quality automatic watches to the general public. These watches laid the groundwork for the legendary Seiko 5 series that would follow. The "Water Proof" marking on the dial indicates this watch was produced before the industry shifted to "Water Resistant" terminology in the early 1970s, firmly placing it in a golden era of Japanese watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSW-0004