Seiko - Seikomatic-R - No reserve price - 8346-9010 - Men - 1966

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Seikomatic-R represents a significant chapter in Seiko’s mid-century history, embodying the sophisticated design language that defined the brand's ascent in the 1960s. Designed with a recessed crown to emphasize the symmetry of the case and the efficiency of the automatic winding system, this reference 8346-9010 offers a sleek, uninterrupted profile on the wrist. It stands as a testament to the "Business Watch" era of Japan, combining robust mechanical engineering with an aesthetic that remains timelessly elegant. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic-R Reference Number: 8346-9010 Serial Number: 6D12853 Movement: Automatic Caliber 8346A Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1966 Condition: Good vintage condition. Running within vintage tolerances. Movement is active and operational. Dial and Hands The dial presents a radiant silver sunburst finish that catches the light dynamically from the center outward. It features substantial, multifaceted applied baton indices that add depth and legibility. The dauphine-style hands are faceted to match the hour markers and contain central lume plots which have aged to a dark, oxidized patina, consistent with the watch's vintage nature. A framed day-date aperture resides at the 3 o'clock position, displaying the day in blue text. The applied "SEIKO" logo and printed "SEIKOMATIC-R" text remain crisp and legible, while the minute track runs cleanly around the periphery. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 37mm and features a polished finish with gently curved lugs that hug the wrist. A defining feature of this model is the recessed crown positioned at 4 o'clock, designed to sit flush with the case flank to enhance comfort and streamline the silhouette. The case shows honest signs of vintage wear, including surface scratches and handling marks commensurate with its age. The screw-down caseback prominently displays the iconic dolphin emblem, a hallmark of Seiko's water-resistant automatic lines from this era, along with the clearly visible serial and reference numbers. The acrylic crystal is domed, showing some crazing and surface wear near the edges but remaining clear enough to view the dial details. Movement Powering this timepiece is the automatic Caliber 8346A, a robust 27-jewel movement equipped with Seiko's Diashock protection system. The movement plates and rotor show signs of age and oxidation, yet the mechanism remains intact and functional. The rotor is signed clearly with "Seiko" and "27 Jewels," showcasing the industrial finishing typical of 1960s Seiko production. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching, which lends a sporty yet dressy appearance to the piece. It is secured by a simple, polished stainless steel pin buckle that complements the case finish. Condition This example is in good vintage condition. The case retains its original geometry though it displays visible scratches and wear from decades of use. The dial is well-preserved with a clean sunburst effect, while the hands show distinct oxidation and darkening of the luminous material. The caseback engravings are legible, though the dolphin medallion shows softening from wear. Running within vintage tolerances, the movement is active and operational. Dimensions The case diameter is 37 mm excluding the crown, providing a classic presence that suits a variety of wrist sizes. The lug width accommodates standard straps, allowing for versatility in styling. Remarks The Seikomatic-R series is often celebrated by collectors for bridging the gap between Seiko's entry-level automatics and the higher-end King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines. This particular reference, with its hidden crown and dolphin caseback, offers a charming entry point into vintage Japanese horology. History Introduced in the mid-1960s, the Seikomatic line was Seiko's flagship automatic range, designed to showcase the practicality of self-winding watches for the busy professional. The "R" series utilized the 8300-series movements, which were thinner and more refined than some of their predecessors. The 8346 movement found in this example was a workhorse of the era, contributing to Seiko's reputation for reliability and precision that would eventually lead them to dominate the global watch market in the decades that followed. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SMJ-0011