Seiko - King Seiko Special Chronometer - No reserve price - 5246-6000 - Men - 1971

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional King Seiko represents the pinnacle of Daini Seikosha's mechanical achievements during the golden age of Japanese watchmaking. Combining a high-beat chronometer-certified movement, a unique one-piece case construction, and a mesmerizing textured dial, this timepiece is a highly compelling acquisition for the discerning collector seeking both historical significance and refined aesthetics. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Special Chronometer Reference Number: 5246-6000 Serial Number: 191988 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5246 Dial: Silver linen texture with applied indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Date: September 1971 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, remarkably well-preserved Dial and Hands The watch features a remarkable silver linen textured dial that creates a dynamic interplay of light across its surface. Applied faceted baton indices are detailed with black central channels, enhancing legibility against the textured background. The dial furniture includes a sharply applied Seiko logo at twelve o'clock, balanced by the precisely printed "Automatic Chronometer Officially Certified" text. The lower half proudly displays the "KS Special Hi-Beat" designation alongside the iconic Daini Seikosha lightning bolt emblem. A polished metal frame elegantly borders the day and date aperture at three o'clock. The dial is in exceptionally clean condition, completely free of moisture damage, staining, or prominent age spots, retaining a crisp and factory-fresh appearance. The faceted sword hands mirror the indices with matching black stripes and remain in excellent visual condition. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel case utilizes a sophisticated front-loading, single-piece architecture, explicitly noted on the caseback with the engraving "Open Thru Glass, Push Set Lever, Pull Stem." This design was implemented to enhance structural integrity and water resistance. The case retains its sharp factory lines, showcasing distinct transitions between the finely brushed upper lug surfaces and the brightly polished case flanks. The original crown, deeply signed with the KS logo, remains crisp and tactile. The solid caseback is remarkably well-preserved, with all factory engravings, including the serial number 191988 and reference 5246-6000, remaining deep, sharp, and entirely legible. The case exhibits only light, honest handling marks commensurate with careful vintage ownership, avoiding any severe impacts or heavy polishing. The crystal presents cleanly above the dial, providing a clear and undistorted view of the intricate linen texture. Movement Tucked securely within the monocase is the Daini Seikosha automatic caliber 5246, a revered high-beat movement that earned official chronometer certification upon its release. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. Timegrapher testing indicates a performance of +24 to +30 seconds per day, reflecting the enduring mechanical quality of this sophisticated vintage caliber. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome black leather strap featuring a classic reptilian pattern and contrasting red stitching on the reverse lining. It is secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle, offering a refined and comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is graded in excellent vintage condition. The dial is a particular highlight, remaining extraordinarily clean and well-preserved. The honest nature of the case is evident in its sharp lug profiles and crisp caseback engravings. It stands as a beautifully maintained example of top-tier Japanese watchmaking from the era. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. Remarks The King Seiko Special 5246-6000 is a masterclass in vintage Japanese horology, blending exceptional chronometer-grade mechanics with understated, elegant design. The presence of the linen dial elevates the aesthetic significantly, offering a level of detail that continues to captivate collectors. It is a highly wearable and historically important piece of Seiko's legacy. History During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Seiko's internal competition between the Suwa and Daini factories produced some of the most accurate and beautifully finished watches in the world. The Daini-produced 52 series of calibers represented the pinnacle of their automatic movement development. The "Special" designation indicated a watch that had been adjusted to even tighter tolerances than the standard King Seiko line, rivaling the exacting standards of Grand Seiko. The brilliant engineering of the 52 caliber was so highly regarded that Seiko resurrected its core architecture decades later to form the basis of the modern 4S movement family, cementing its status as one of the most important mechanical designs in the brand's history. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKS-0005