Seiko - Crown - No reserve price - 950388 - Men - 1960-1969

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Seiko Crown stands as a pivotal model in the brand's history, representing a significant step forward in their pursuit of chronometric excellence during the mid-20th century. Introduced in the late 1950s, the Crown was designed to be a premium offering, boasting a larger movement and refined aesthetics compared to its predecessors. This particular example, a Seiko Crown Diashock, showcases the elegant simplicity and functional beauty that define the era's dress watches. Its clean lines, applied indices, and dauphine hands are quintessential hallmarks of classic mid-century design, making it a timeless addition to any vintage collection. The presence of the Diashock system highlights Seiko's commitment to durability and innovation, ensuring the movement's resilience. Brand: Seiko Model: Crown Reference Number: 950388 Movement: Manual wind, Seikosha 19 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst, applied gold-tone faceted baton indices, clean condition Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1960s Condition: Good vintage condition, well-preserved case and dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Seiko Crown is a beautiful silver sunburst, offering a subtle yet captivating interplay with light. It features applied gold-tone faceted baton indices, with double batons at the 12 o'clock position, providing excellent legibility and a touch of elegance. The typography is clean and crisp, with "Seiko Crown" elegantly scripted below the 12 o'clock marker and "Diashock 19 Jewels" printed above the 6 o'clock position. The dial remains in remarkably clean condition, showing only very faint signs of age-appropriate patination upon close inspection, free from significant spots, moisture marks, or damage. The gold-tone dauphine hands complement the indices perfectly, exhibiting clean, sharp edges and a consistent finish. Case and Crystal The 34mm stainless steel case presents a classic, understated profile with slender, straight lugs that enhance its dress watch aesthetic. The transition between the polished bezel and the case flanks remains well-defined. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, with light surface scratches and minor handling marks visible, particularly on the polished surfaces and the caseback, which is consistent with its age. The caseback bears the reference number 950388, along with "Stainless Steel" and other factory engravings, which remain clearly legible despite some surface wear. The watch is fitted with a domed crystal that provides a clear view of the dial, showing minimal signs of wear. The crown, featuring a fine coin edge, appears well-proportioned to the case. Movement Powering this timepiece is a manual-wind Seikosha movement, clearly marked with "19 Jewels" on the bridge. The movement exhibits a clean, utilitarian finish typical of Seiko's production from this era, with visible rubies and a well-preserved balance wheel assembly. The Diashock shock absorption system is present, a testament to the model's durability. The movement components, including the gears and bridges, appear clean and well-maintained. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher result is +24 to +30 s/d. Strap The watch is paired with a dark brown leather strap, featuring contrasting yellow stitching that adds a touch of character. The strap shows signs of wear and use, particularly around the sizing holes and the edges, consistent with normal wear. It is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This Seiko Crown is in good vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, maintaining its original sunburst finish and clean typography. The stainless steel case retains its classic shape, showing normal, honest wear consistent with decades of careful use, without any deep gouges or significant structural damage. The movement is visually clean and operational. Dimensions Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This Seiko Crown is a wonderful representation of mid-century Japanese watchmaking, offering a blend of elegant design and reliable mechanics. Its clean dial and classic proportions make it an excellent choice for both seasoned collectors and those new to vintage Seiko. History The Seiko Crown, launched in 1959, was a crucial development for Seiko, serving as the foundation for the legendary Grand Seiko line introduced a year later. Designed by Suwa Seikosha, the Crown featured a larger, more stable movement (Caliber 560) than previous models like the Marvel, allowing for greater accuracy and reliability. It was positioned as a high-end luxury watch, reflecting Japan's post-war economic recovery and Seiko's ambition to compete with Swiss manufacturers. The Crown's success not only solidified Seiko's reputation for quality but also paved the way for their future triumphs in chronometry and high-precision watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SCD-0026