Seiko Seikomatic 6218-8971 (1965)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This distinguished Seikomatic captures the essence of 1960s Japanese horology, blending sophisticated mechanical engineering with a timeless, elegant aesthetic. Known for its distinct 'Weekdater' layout, this piece stands as a testament to Seiko's mid-century design prowess and commitment to high-quality automatic watchmaking. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic Reference Number: 6218-8971 Serial Number: 5N30641 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6218C Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold-tone indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-Plated (SGP) Production Year: 1965 Condition: Good vintage condition with a pristine dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a striking example of mid-century Seiko design, remaining in exceptionally clean condition with a brilliant radiant finish. It features applied, faceted gold-tone baton indices that catch the light beautifully, complemented by an applied Seiko logo at twelve o'clock. The dial layout is distinguished by its configuration, showcasing a framed date window at three o'clock and a prominent, fully spelled-out day aperture at six o'clock. The crisp black typography, including the elegant Seikomatic script, remains sharp and perfectly legible, with no visible spotting or moisture damage. The gold-tone dauphine hands are well-preserved, exhibiting a gentle, age-consistent patina that harmonizes perfectly with the overall aesthetic of the pristine dial. Case and Crystal The 37mm gold-plated case presents a classic profile with elegant, sweeping lugs and a recessed crown positioned at four o'clock, a signature of Seiko's automatic movements of the era. The case exhibits honest signs of vintage wear, including surface scratches and localized brassing along the lug edges and bezel, consistent with its age and history of use. The stainless steel caseback features the iconic dolphin and crown emblem, along with clear reference and serial number engravings that remain highly legible. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, offering clear visibility with minor surface wear typical of vintage timepieces. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Seiko Caliber 6218C, a sophisticated 35-jewel automatic movement known for its refined engineering and reliability. The movement presents cleanly, with the rotor and bridges displaying standard factory finishing and clear caliber engravings. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of +41 to +46 seconds per day. Strap The watch is presented on a brown textured leather strap featuring contrasting beige stitching. It is secured with a gold-tone pin buckle that perfectly complements the warm metallic tones of the case. Condition This Seikomatic is in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, standing out as the absolute highlight of the piece. The gold-plated case shows expected wear, including softening of edges and plating loss, which adds to its authentic vintage character without detracting from its overall charm on the wrist. Dimensions Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Seikomatic 6218 series represents a high point in Seiko's 1960s lineup, offering near-Grand Seiko levels of finishing and movement complexity. The distinctive layout with the day display at six o'clock remains highly sought after by collectors for its balanced and symmetrical design, making this a superb addition to any vintage Seiko collection. History Introduced in the mid-1960s, the Seikomatic line was positioned as a premium offering for the modern professional, showcasing Seiko's advancements in automatic winding technology. The caliber 6218, with its high jewel count and sophisticated day-date mechanism, was a precursor to the esteemed 62GS, cementing its place in the lineage of Seiko's most respected vintage movements. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-MJN-0001