Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5626-5010 - Men - 1971

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The King Seiko line represents a pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking from the golden era of mechanical horology, conceived to compete directly with Swiss chronometers and its internal rival, Grand Seiko. This striking square-cased King Seiko reference 5626-5010 exemplifies the bold design language of the early 1970s, combining high-beat precision with an architectural, robust stainless steel case. With its captivating vertically brushed dial and reliable automatic caliber, this timepiece remains a highly sought-after prize for discerning collectors of vintage Japanese horology. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5626-5010 Serial Number: 192964 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626 Dial: Vertically brushed charcoal grey dial in exceptionally clean condition with crisp applied indices Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1971 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a beautifully preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial of this King Seiko is a masterclass in texture and legibility, featuring a striking charcoal grey surface finished with a pronounced vertical brushing. The dial presents in exceptionally clean condition, free from significant spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration, maintaining a sharp and crisp appearance throughout. Applied silver-tone indices feature intricate grooved texturing, catching the light dynamically alongside the applied Seiko and KS logos. The printed text, including the Suwa factory emblem, remains perfectly intact and legible. The day and date aperture at the three o'clock position is framed by a pristine silver-tone border, displaying both English and Kanji day wheels. Time is indicated by distinct black hands featuring a contrasting central white stripe, accompanied by a slender black sweep second hand, all of which remain in excellent visual condition. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel case boasts a bold, architectural square profile characteristic of the era. The front face of the case features a heavy vertical brushed finish that perfectly complements the dial texture, transitioning sharply into polished flanks. The case exhibits honest signs of wear, with light surface scratches and minor handling marks visible under close inspection, but it retains its strong factory lines and sharp lug geometry without appearing over-polished. The flat crystal sits flush above the dial, presenting a clear and unobstructed view with only minimal signs of use. The solid caseback is well-preserved, featuring deeply engraved KS branding, reference numbers, and the serial number, all remaining highly legible. Movement Ticking inside this timepiece is the celebrated Seiko caliber 5626, a high-beat automatic movement renowned for its sophisticated engineering and sweeping seconds hand. While the movement sits securely behind the solid stainless steel caseback, the external functionality of the crown and quickset mechanisms operate as intended. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances, running strong and steady. Timegrapher results show a variance of +17 to +25 seconds per day, indicating healthy mechanical operation for a watch of this vintage. Strap The watch is fitted with a supple black leather strap featuring contrasting white vintage-style stitching. The strap provides a comfortable fit and pairs beautifully with the dark tones of the dial and the stark geometry of the stainless steel case, secured by a classic polished steel pin buckle. Condition Good vintage condition. The watch shows normal vintage wear, moderate handling marks, and a well-defined case that retains its original finishing contrasts. The dial is exceptionally preserved, standing out as a remarkable feature of this piece. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown). Remarks This King Seiko 5626-5010 is a superb example of vintage Japanese design, offering a compelling mix of sharp case geometry and a mesmerizing textured dial. It stands as a testament to the enduring quality and aesthetic foresight of the Suwa Seikosha factory during the peak of the mechanical watch era. History Introduced in the 1960s, the King Seiko collection was born from a fierce internal rivalry within Seiko to produce the ultimate luxury timepiece. Produced by the Daini and Suwa divisions, these watches pushed the boundaries of accuracy, finishing, and design. The 56KS series, launched in the late 1960s and early 1970s, introduced automated winding and high-beat escapements to the King Seiko lineage, cementing its reputation as a technologically advanced and aesthetically daring collection. Today, these models are revered by enthusiasts for their historical significance and exceptional build quality. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-AKH-0001