Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5626-7000 - Men - 1970

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional King Seiko represents the pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking during a highly competitive and innovative era. Embodying the legendary Grammar of Design principles laid out by Taro Tanaka, this timepiece offers a masterclass in light and shadow through its sharp, faceted case architecture. The presence of a fully intact gold KS medallion on the caseback elevates its collectibility, while the remarkably pristine sunburst dial serves as a testament to its careful preservation over the decades. This is a highly compelling acquisition for the discerning vintage enthusiast seeking a premier example of Seiko's historical excellence. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5626-7000 Serial Number: 000223 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 5626 Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, outstanding preservation of dial and case lines Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a striking focal point, preserved in stunning, exceptionally clean condition with no visible spots, staining, or discoloration. The dial furniture is meticulously executed, featuring applied, highly faceted baton hour markers with distinct black central channels that enhance legibility. The applied "SEIKO" logo in crisp sans-serif typography sits proudly below the twelve o'clock position, complemented by the applied serif "KS" logo and printed "HI-BEAT" text above the six o'clock mark, alongside the classic Suwa Seikosha symbol. A sharply framed aperture at the three o'clock position displays the day and date, offering both Kanji and English options. The black dauphine hands are well-preserved, showing only minor, age-consistent surface dust and faint aging visible under strict macro inspection, perfectly harmonizing with the black accents of the indices. Case and Crystal The 37 mm stainless steel case is a superb execution of vintage Seiko design, retaining its sharp lug profiles, factory chamfers, and the intended contrast between the brushed upper surfaces and the highly polished case flanks. The watch is fitted with a crisp, signed "KS" crown. Turning the watch over reveals a beautifully preserved caseback featuring the highly desirable gold King Seiko medallion, which remains fully intact with crisp, defined text and logos. The case exhibits honest, light signs of wear consistent with careful vintage use, free from heavy impacts or severe polishing. The watch features a flat crystal form that sits flush above the dial, remaining clear and providing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath. Movement Powered by the esteemed Caliber 5626 automatic Hi-Beat movement, this watch was built for high precision and durability. The movement is housed safely within a front-loading monocoque case, as indicated by the "OPEN THRU GLASS" engraving on the caseback. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. Recording +45 to +49 seconds per day on the timegrapher. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome, period-correct black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching. The strap is supple and complements the sharp, monochromatic aesthetic of the stainless steel case and silver dial perfectly. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable highlight, remaining incredibly crisp and free of the spotting or moisture damage often found in watches of this era. The case retains strong, defined lines, and the gold caseback medallion is remarkably well-preserved. It stands as a highly attractive and well-kept example of a classic King Seiko. Dimensions The case measures 37 mm in diameter, excluding the crown, offering a refined and classic presence on the wrist. Remarks Finding a vintage King Seiko with such an immaculate dial and a perfectly preserved gold medallion is becoming increasingly difficult. The interplay of the faceted case lines and the brilliant sunburst dial makes this a standout piece that perfectly captures the ambition and quality of Seiko's golden age. History King Seiko was born in the 1960s out of an internal rivalry within Seiko, designed to compete directly with Grand Seiko in the pursuit of ultimate precision and design. Produced by the Daini and Suwa factories, King Seiko watches were characterized by their high-beat movements and sharp, uncompromising case designs. The 56KS series, introduced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, represents a high-water mark for the line, combining automated convenience with chronometer-level aspirations, securing its place as an icon of vintage horology. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKH-0012