Seiko - Seikomatic-R - No reserve price - 8306-8001 - Men - 1966

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Seikomatic-R is a compelling representation of Seiko's mid-century design philosophy, blending elegant dress watch proportions with robust mechanical engineering. The watch captures the essence of 1960s Japanese horology, offering a sophisticated sunburst dial and a highly capable automatic movement. Its honest vintage character makes it an appealing choice for collectors who appreciate timepieces that wear their history openly. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic-R Reference Number: 8306-8001 Serial Number: 6311019 Movement: Seiko Caliber 8306A, 30 Jewels, Automatic Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices, showing scattered spotting and age marks Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1966 Condition: Good vintage condition showing honest wear and dial aging Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial features a refined aesthetic with applied faceted block indices featuring grooved centers that catch the light beautifully. The applied Seiko logo and framed day-date aperture at three o'clock add depth to the layout, while the crisp black printing reads "SEIKOMATIC-R DIASHOCK 30 JEWELS." Close inspection reveals scattered spotting and age-related marks across the dial surface, particularly a noticeable area of discoloration around the center post and small specks near the perimeter. The dark dauphine hands provide excellent contrast against the silver dial, exhibiting signs of oxidation and surface wear consistent with the watch's age. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel case retains strong, well-defined lines, showcasing a classic vintage profile with nicely proportioned lugs. The transition between the brushed upper surfaces and polished flanks remains visible, though honest signs of regular wear, including light scratches and handling marks, are present throughout. The screw-down caseback features the iconic Seiko dolphin motif, clearly engraved alongside the serial number 6311019 and "WATER PROOF" text. The inside of the caseback bears the 8306-8001 reference stamping. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, presenting clearly with only minor surface wear. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko Caliber 8306A, a sophisticated 30-jewel automatic movement. The movement presents cleanly, with the rotor and bridges showing appropriate factory finishing for the era. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher results show a deviation of +55 to +57 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring a crocodile grain pattern and contrasting white stitching, secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition Good vintage condition showing honest wear and dial aging. The case exhibits normal handling marks and retains its original geometry, while the dial displays scattered spotting and patina that speak to its history. The movement is running and operational. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This Seikomatic-R represents a handsome example of mid-century Japanese watchmaking, offering the practical day-date complication within an elegant and highly wearable case design. The visible aging adds a distinct vintage character to this classic dress watch, making it a charming addition to any Seiko collection. History The Seikomatic line was introduced in the early 1960s as a premium range of automatic watches designed for the modern professional. The 'R' designation often indicated refined movements and elevated finishing within the series. These watches helped cement Seiko's reputation for producing highly reliable, self-winding timepieces that rivaled their Swiss counterparts in both accuracy and durability, paving the way for the brand's enduring global success in mechanical watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-MXX-0003