Seiko - Sportsmatic Deluxe - No reserve price - 7606-7000 - Men - 1965

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The Seiko Sportsmatic Deluxe represents a captivating era of mid-century Japanese horology, seamlessly blending refined dress watch aesthetics with robust everyday utility. Introduced during a period of rapid innovation for Seiko, the Sportsmatic line was designed to make automatic timekeeping accessible without compromising on style or reliability. This reference 7606-7000 is particularly notable for its sophisticated dial layout, distinctive fluted inner bezel, and the characteristic recessed crown that emphasizes its automatic winding capability. Preserved in remarkable condition, this timepiece offers collectors an exceptional opportunity to acquire a highly attractive and historically significant vintage Seiko that continues to wear beautifully today. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportsmatic Deluxe Reference Number: 7606-7000 Serial Number: 5300957 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 7606, 23 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, remarkably clean condition Case Size: 38 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1965 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with an exceptionally well-preserved dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a masterclass in mid-century Japanese design, presenting an exceptionally clean and bright appearance that catches the light beautifully. It features prominently applied and faceted baton indices that add significant depth to the display, complemented by the applied Seiko 5 shield and classic cursive Sportsmatic text. The printing across the dial, including the Deluxe script and Diashock designation, remains crisp and fully intact. A framed day and date window sits perfectly proportioned at the three o'clock position. The polished dauphine hands maintain excellent structural integrity, exhibiting only very faint, age-appropriate oxidation upon close inspection, while the sweeping seconds hand completes the elegant layout. The dial is free of any distracting spots, moisture marks, or significant degradation, standing as a testament to the careful preservation of this piece. Case and Crystal The 38 millimeter stainless steel case features a classic profile with sharply defined lugs and smooth transitions between its polished surfaces. A standout architectural element of this reference is the intricate fluted inner bezel ring positioned just beneath the domed crystal, which frames the dial with a sophisticated, coin-edge texture. The case exhibits honest, light handling marks consistent with careful vintage wear, but retains its factory geometry without signs of heavy polishing. The recessed crown at the four o'clock position sits flush against the case flank, while the dedicated date quickset pusher is neatly integrated above it. Turning the watch over reveals a deeply embossed caseback featuring the iconic Seiko dolphin motif, alongside crisp engravings of the reference and serial numbers. The domed crystal is clear and well-preserved, providing an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko Caliber 7606 automatic movement, featuring 23 jewels and the brand's proprietary Diashock anti-shock system. This caliber is historically significant for its robust construction and efficient automatic winding mechanism, designed during an era when Seiko was perfecting the self-winding watch for daily use. A notable technical feature of this movement is the dedicated pusher mechanism located on the case side, which allows for quick and convenient advancing of the date complication. Strap The watch is fitted with a supple black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching, complementing the monochrome aesthetic of the silver dial and stainless steel case. The strap is secured with a classic stainless steel tang buckle. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the clear highlight, remaining exceptionally clean and free of the spotting or edge wear often seen in watches of this age. The hands show only minor, honest signs of aging that suit the vintage character of the piece perfectly. The stainless steel case retains strong lines and well-defined lugs, with surface wear limited to superficial scratches expected from normal, careful use over the decades. The caseback engravings, including the central medallion, remain sharp and highly legible. Dimensions The case measures 38 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks With its generous case size, intricate inner fluted bezel, and beautifully preserved sunburst dial, this Sportsmatic Deluxe offers an outstanding presence on the wrist. It captures the essence of 1960s Seiko design philosophy, balancing elegance with everyday practicality in a package that appeals strongly to both seasoned collectors and vintage enthusiasts. History The Seiko Sportsmatic line was launched in the early 1960s as part of a broader initiative to popularize automatic watches among the general public. By moving the crown to a recessed position at four o'clock, Seiko made a bold design statement emphasizing that manual winding was no longer necessary. The "Deluxe" designation was introduced for models featuring higher jewel counts, more refined case finishing, and added complications like the push-button date quickset. These watches played a crucial role in establishing Seiko's reputation for producing highly reliable, beautifully designed automatic timepieces that could compete with Swiss counterparts, paving the way for the enduring legacy of the Seiko 5 collection. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSD-0072