Seiko - King Seiko Vanac - 5626-7180 - Men - 1973

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage The King Seiko Vanac line represents one of the most daring and expressive eras of Japanese watchmaking, emerging in the early 1970s with unapologetic geometric designs, vibrant dials, and highly faceted crystals. This specific reference 5626-7180 captures the very essence of that avant-garde philosophy, pairing a mesmerizing gradient blue dial with an angular stainless steel case and a distinctive gold-tone bezel. Powered by the highly regarded 56-series movement architecture, this Vanac is not merely a design statement but a serious piece of horology. Preserved in remarkable condition, it stands as a compelling acquisition for the discerning collector seeking a rare and visually striking vintage King Seiko. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Reference Number: 5626-7180 Serial Number: 357942 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626B, 25 Jewels Dial: Gradient blue with faceted indices, pristine condition showing no visible flaws Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel with gold-tone bezel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, exceptionally preserved with sharp case lines and a flawless dial. Movement have been serviced and performs strongly. Dial and Hands The dial is an absolute standout, featuring a rich gradient that transitions from a deep, saturated teal at the center to a darker navy blue at the periphery. The typography is precise and entirely intact, with applied gold-tone Seiko, Vanac, and KS logos providing excellent depth. The hour markers are highly architectural, utilizing applied gold-tone blocks with striking silver-tone inserts that catch the light beautifully. A framed day-date aperture rests at the three o'clock position, displaying a classic Kanji and English day wheel. A thorough visual inspection reveals the dial to be in pristine condition, completely free of spots, moisture marks, staining, or surface damage. The faceted gold-tone baton hands feature black central stripes for legibility and remain in superb condition, free of oxidation or wear. Case and Crystal The 37 mm stainless steel case is a masterclass in 1970s geometric design, defined by its sharp, angular lugs and faceted flanks. The transition between the brushed upper surfaces and polished sides remains crisp, indicating excellent preservation and no signs of over-polishing. A fixed gold-tone bezel frames the dial, adding a touch of warmth that perfectly complements the hands and dial furniture. The crown at three o'clock is original and proudly bears the embossed KS signature. Above the dial sits a highly faceted crystal, a hallmark of the Vanac series, which creates dynamic optical effects depending on the viewing angle. The crystal presents beautifully, showing only the faintest signs of careful handling, while the case exhibits honest, light handling marks entirely consistent with its age. Movement Inside beats the Seiko Caliber 5626B, a 25-jewel automatic movement renowned for its reliability and precision during the golden age of King Seiko. Close inspection of the movement reveals a clean and well-maintained mechanism, with clear engravings on the rotor and no visible signs of moisture intrusion or corrosion. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. +10 to +12 seconds per day. Movement have been serviced and performs strongly. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel bracelet, identified by the distinctive geometric, interlocking link design that seamlessly integrates with the angular case. The endlinks are clearly stamped with the factory code XJB 060, confirming its originality. The folding clasp is deeply embossed with the Vanac signature and functions securely. The bracelet shows light, honest wear and retains its structural integrity. Condition This King Seiko Vanac is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its factory-intended sharpness and dramatic architectural lines, avoiding the softened edges often seen on over-polished examples. The dial is exceptionally preserved, offering a flawless visual experience under close examination. The original bracelet and signed crown further elevate the collector value of this highly original piece. Dimensions The case measures 37 mm in diameter excluding the signed crown, offering a substantial and highly wearable profile. The integrated bracelet design accommodates a wrist size of up to 18 cm, ensuring a comfortable fit for a variety of collectors. Remarks Finding a King Seiko Vanac with its original faceted crystal, pristine gradient dial, and factory-stamped geometric bracelet is an increasingly rare occurrence. This timepiece offers an extraordinary blend of high-grade mechanical watchmaking and expressive vintage design, making it a highly rewarding addition to any serious Seiko collection. History Introduced in the early 1970s, the Vanac series was a premium offshoot of the King Seiko line, designed to appeal to a younger, fashion-forward demographic. While standard King Seiko models adhered to classic, conservative dress watch proportions, the Vanac embraced the bold aesthetics of the era with faceted crystals, integrated bracelets, and vibrant, colorful dials. Despite their flamboyant exteriors, these watches housed the same sophisticated 56-series movements that powered Seiko's most accurate chronometers of the period. Today, the Vanac is celebrated as a unique intersection of uncompromising mechanical quality and daring vintage design. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SVA-0004