Seiko - King Seiko Vanac 皇光 (Kōkō) – Imperial Light - No reserve price - 5626-7180 - Men - 1973

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This is a rare and exceptional opportunity to acquire a striking piece of Japanese horological history, the King Seiko Vanac. Produced during the height of Seiko's creative daring in the 1970s, the Vanac line represented the perfect fusion of high-grade chronometer-quality engineering with avant-garde design. This specific example features a mesmerizing electric blue dial viewed through an intricate faceted crystal, creating a visual depth and play of light that is truly unique to this era. A highly collectible timepiece, it combines the prestige of the King Seiko lineage with a bold aesthetic that remains a conversation starter today. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Reference Number: 5626-7180 Serial Number: 342726 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626B Dial: Electric blue with faceted crystal Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive vintage appearance with visible wear to the case and crystal consistent with its age, while the movement is performing exceptionally well. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, presenting a deep, vibrant electric blue tone that is clean and well-preserved. It features distinct applied gold-tone geometric hour markers that add a layer of sophistication and contrast against the blue background. The gold-tone hands are in good condition, complementing the markers perfectly. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial is protected by the original faceted mineral crystal, which splits the light beautifully, though the crystal shows signs of age with nibbles and wear along the faceted edges. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features the sharp, angular "Grammar of Design" geometry that King Seiko is famous for, modified with the funkier, more aggressive lines of the Vanac series. The case remains unpolished with its original edges defined, though it displays surface scratches and marks throughout, typical of a watch that has been enjoyed since the 1970s. The caseback clearly displays the King Seiko Vanac branding and reference numbers. The faceted crystal, a signature of this model, has some scratches and edge wear but remains structurally sound and highly distinctive. Movement Powering this watch is the high-grade Seiko Caliber 5626B automatic movement. This is a 25-jewel Hi-Beat movement, renowned for its reliability and precision. The movement is clean and is currently running within vintage tolerances. Timegrapher testing indicates a performance of -2 to -9 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality black textured strap featuring white contrast stitching. The strap is in excellent condition and complements the sporty yet elegant nature of the watch, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It shows honest signs of wear to the steel case and the faceted crystal, which is expected for a piece from 1973. However, the dial remains vibrant and attractive. The movement is strong and keeping excellent time for a vintage piece. It is a genuine example of Seiko's design heritage. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic size that offers significant wrist presence due to the angular case shape and the faceted crystal height. Remarks The King Seiko Vanac is becoming increasingly sought after by collectors who appreciate the unique intersection of high-beat performance and 1970s design language. This reference 5626-7180 is a prime example of why these watches are rising in value, offering a distinct look that cannot be found in modern watchmaking. History Introduced in the early 1970s, the Vanac series was a sub-brand under the prestigious King Seiko label. It was Seiko's answer to the colorful and experimental fashion trends of the decade, designed to appeal to a younger, style-conscious demographic while maintaining the strict quality standards of the King Seiko factory. Produced by the Daini Seikosha factory, these watches utilized high-end 56KS chronometer-grade movements housed in cases that defied convention, making them a fascinating chapter in the story of Japanese luxury watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKV-0015