Seiko - Cronos 風華 – Fūka – Wind Elegance - No reserve price - 14036 - Men - 1959

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage Discover a significant piece of Japanese horological history with this Seiko Cronos. Produced by the Daini Seikosha factory, the Cronos is widely regarded as the high-end predecessor to the legendary King Seiko line. This particular example distinguishes itself with a high-jewel count movement and an exceptionally preserved dial featuring the coveted "AD" star logo, making it a sophisticated choice for the discerning vintage collector. Brand: Seiko Model: Cronos Reference Number: 14036 (Inside caseback stamp implied for this era/model configuration) Serial Number: 984910 Movement: Manual Wind Seikosha 23 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with gold-tone applied indices Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1959 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with timegrapher results between +2 and +10 seconds per day, indicating a very healthy movement. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is preserved in stunning vintage condition, retaining a bright and consistent sheen that catches the light beautifully. It features gold-tone faceted applied hour markers and sharp Dauphine hands which create a classic dress watch aesthetic. The text remains crisp and legible, including the "Diashock 23 Jewels" designation and the applied "AD" (Applique Dial) star logo at the 6 o'clock position, signifying that the indices are high-quality faceted appliques. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is in excellent condition for its age, showing clean lines and the distinctive thin bezel characteristic of late 1950s dress watches. There are minor surface scratches consistent with careful vintage wear, but the case retains its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. The lugs are straight and elegant, framing the wrist comfortably. The acrylic crystal is clear and free of distracting marks, allowing an unobstructed view of the dial. Movement Inside beats the reliable Seikosha manual wind caliber with 23 jewels, a higher jewel count than standard models of the era, indicating a higher grade of finish and performance. The movement is clean and visually appealing. Timegrapher testing shows the watch running impressively well, measuring between +2 and +10 seconds per day, which indicates offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap featuring contrasting brown stitching. This strap complements the vintage character of the piece while providing a secure and comfortable fit for modern wear. Condition This timepiece is rated in Excellent vintage condition. The most notable aspect is the pristine nature of the dial, which is free from the spotting or heavy patination often found on watches from this period. The case shows honest history but remains very presentable. The movement is mechanically sound and operating within excellent parameters for a watch of this vintage. Dimensions The case measures 34 mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic mid-century size that offers a refined presence on the wrist. The lug-to-lug length ensures it wears proportionally on a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The Seiko Cronos holds a special place in collector circles as the foundation upon which the Daini factory built its reputation, eventually leading to the creation of King Seiko. Finding a 23-jewel variant with such a clean dial and sharp case is becoming increasingly difficult. This watch represents a blend of historical significance and enduring style, perfect for both dress and casual occasions. History Introduced in 1958, the Seiko Cronos was developed by Daini Seikosha as a direct competitor to the Suwa Seikosha's Marvel and Crown lines. It was known for its thinner profile and high-performance movement architecture. The Cronos line demonstrated Daini's capability to produce high-accuracy, beautifully finished timepieces, setting the stage for the intense internal rivalry that would drive Seiko's rapid technological advancements in the 1960s. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SCD-0007