Seiko - 5 Sports Speed-Timer Chronograph - 6139-7020 - Men - 1971

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The Seiko automatic chronograph lineage represents a monumental era in horological development, and the 6139 series remains a cornerstone of vintage sports watch collecting. This specific reference is a remarkable representation of Japanese watchmaking prowess from the early 1970s. Characterized by its distinctive cushion case and vibrant dial accents, it captures the energetic design language of the era while housing a movement of significant historical importance. Pieces preserved in such honest and visually striking condition offer collectors a direct link to the golden age of mechanical chronographs. Brand: Seiko Model: 5 Sports Speed-Timer Reference Number: 6139-7020 Serial Number: 192185 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6139B Dial: Matte black dial with silver sub-dial, exceptionally clean condition with crisp printing and intact luminous material Case Size: 40 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1971 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably preserved dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The watch features a striking matte black dial that serves as a high-contrast backdrop for its vibrant elements. The typography is sharp and precise, with the white printed "SEIKO 5 SPORTS" logo sitting above the highly desirable orange "Speed-Timer" script. At the six o'clock position, a silver-toned 30-minute chronograph register is detailed with black numerals and an orange accent track. The applied-style block indices are filled with luminous material that presents a consistent, clean appearance. The handset includes white baton hour and minute hands with luminous centers, complemented by a vivid yellow chronograph sweep seconds hand and a matching yellow minute counter hand. A framed day-date aperture at three o'clock displays the highly sought-after Kanji and English day wheels. Upon close visual inspection, the dial is exceptionally clean, showing no visible spots, moisture damage, staining, or print loss, representing a superb level of preservation. Case and Crystal The stainless steel cushion case features a robust, helmet-style profile with hooded lugs that perfectly encapsulate early 1970s design. The case geometry is well-preserved, displaying a clear and distinct transition between the radial brushing on the upper surfaces and the polished finish on the case flanks. It features a recessed crown at three o'clock and traditional pump pushers at two and four o'clock. The case exhibits honest signs of wear, including minor surface scratches and handling marks consistent with its age, yet it retains strong factory lines without evidence of heavy over-polishing. The watch is fitted with its correct Hardlex mineral crystal in a gently domed form, remaining clear and legible while offering an unobstructed view of the dial without any significant scuffs or damage. The screw-down caseback is in excellent condition, with the Seiko logo, Suwa symbol, reference number, and serial number all deeply and crisply engraved. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko automatic chronograph caliber 6139B, proudly bearing 21 jewels. The movement presents cleanly, with all factory engravings on the rotor and bridges clearly legible. The architecture of the 6139, featuring a column wheel and vertical clutch, remains a marvel of efficient engineering. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher records a deviation of +20s/day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct stainless steel multi-link bracelet, completed by endlinks clearly stamped with the B46-82E factory code. The bracelet exhibits normal vintage stretch and surface wear consistent with the case, maintaining the authentic aesthetic of the timepiece. It is sized to comfortably accommodate a wrist up to 19,5cm. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the undeniable standout feature, remaining incredibly crisp, clean, and free of the degradation often found in chronographs of this era. The case shows honest, age-appropriate handling marks and light surface scratches but maintains excellent structural integrity and finishing contrast. The movement is running strong, and all visual components align beautifully to create a highly attractive collector's piece. Dimensions Case Size: 40 mm (excluding the crown) Wrist Size: 19,5cm Remarks This reference 6139-7020 is a highly collectible Japanese Domestic Market variant. The combination of the deep black dial, vibrant orange and yellow accents, and the culturally significant Kanji day wheel makes this a quintessential piece of Seiko's chronograph history. Its exceptional dial condition elevates it further, making it a compelling addition for any serious enthusiast of vintage sports watches. History Introduced in 1969, the Seiko caliber 6139 holds an undeniable place in horological history as one of the world's first automatic chronograph movements. By utilizing a column wheel and a vertical clutch, Seiko achieved a level of precision and durability that set a new standard for the industry. The "Speed-Timer" models were specifically designated for the Japanese market, offering unique dial variations, robust sports styling, and specialized features like the Kanji day wheel. Today, these early automatic chronographs are celebrated not only for their technical achievements but for their bold, enduring designs that perfectly capture the spirit of 1970s motorsport and adventure. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSS-0008