Seiko King Quartz 4823-8010 (1975)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage Embodying the pinnacle of Japanese horological innovation during the 1970s, this Seiko King Quartz is a magnificent representation of the brand's premium quartz era. Born in a decade where quartz technology was a luxury, the King Quartz line was positioned to offer unparalleled accuracy paired with the high-end finishing traditionally reserved for Seiko’s finest mechanical pieces. This particular example is elevated by a mesmerizing textured blue dial and a sharply faceted case design, making it a highly compelling acquisition for collectors of significant vintage Seiko timepieces. Brand: Seiko Model: King Quartz Reference Number: 4823-8010 Serial Number: 570731 Movement: Quartz Caliber 4823 Dial: Deep blue with vertical linear brushing, exceptionally clean condition with no visible blemishes Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1975 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case geometry and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The visual centerpiece of this watch is its captivating deep blue dial, which features a striking vertical brushed texture that plays beautifully with the light. The dial furniture is fully applied and executed with remarkable precision, featuring polished silver-tone baton hour markers with a prominent double baton at the twelve o'clock position. The applied Seiko and King Quartz logos sit proudly on the upper half, balanced by the iconic applied twin quartz symbol above the six o'clock mark. A finely framed day-date aperture at three o'clock displays both English and Kanji days, adding a touch of domestic market charm. The polished, faceted dauphine hands sweep above the dial, remaining bright and well-preserved. Careful inspection reveals the dial is in outstanding condition, completely free of moisture damage, spotting, or surface degradation, presenting a remarkably clean and vibrant face. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case showcases quintessential 1970s Seiko grammar of design, defined by its sharp, angular geometry and hooded lug profile. The watch exhibits a beautiful transition between the flat, vertically brushed upper surfaces and the highly polished case flanks. The lug profiles remain exceptionally sharp and well-defined, indicating careful preservation over the decades. The flat crystal sits flush above the bezel and provides a clear, unobstructed view of the dial, showing no visually distracting scratches or wear. Turning the watch over reveals a solid stainless steel caseback featuring Seiko’s distinct and highly practical external battery hatch. The factory engravings, including the reference and serial numbers, remain deep, crisp, and fully legible. The case shows only light, honest handling marks consistent with careful vintage wear, retaining its original architectural presence. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko Caliber 4823, a high-end quartz movement that represents the cutting edge of 1970s timekeeping technology. Built during an era when Seiko was investing heavily in premium quartz calibers, this movement was engineered for exceptional reliability and precision. The inclusion of the external battery hatch on the caseback is a hallmark of Seiko's thoughtful engineering from this period, allowing for straightforward maintenance without exposing the movement itself. Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome dark blue textured leather strap that perfectly complements the rich tones of the dial. The strap features matching blue contrast stitching along the edges and is secured by a classic stainless steel tang buckle, providing a comfortable and aesthetically cohesive presence on the wrist. Condition This King Quartz is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, remaining free of the spotting or edge wear often found in watches of this age. The case retains its sharp factory lines and distinct brushed and polished finishes, exhibiting only minor, superficial micro-scratches that are entirely consistent with light, respectful wear. The hands and applied indices remain bright and free of oxidation, contributing to the watch's overall crisp and highly attractive appearance. Dimensions The watch measures a classic and highly wearable 36 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The integrated lug design ensures a seamless and comfortable fit, providing excellent wrist presence that bridges the gap between a vintage dress watch and a versatile daily wearer. Remarks This Seiko King Quartz reference 4823-8010 is a superb artifact from the golden age of Japanese quartz watchmaking. With its sharp case lines, flawless textured blue dial, and robust mechanical pedigree, it offers an outstanding blend of history, design, and reliable performance. It stands ready to be a distinguished addition to any serious vintage watch collection. History Introduced in the mid-1970s, the King Quartz collection was Seiko’s answer to the growing demand for high-precision luxury timepieces during the quartz revolution. Sitting just alongside the Grand Quartz line, these watches were positioned at the very top of Seiko's catalog, commanding prices that often exceeded their mechanical counterparts. Seiko spared no expense in the finishing of these pieces, utilizing complex case geometries, intricate dial textures, and robust, over-engineered quartz calibers. Today, the King Quartz line is celebrated by collectors not just for its historical significance in the timeline of horology, but for the enduring quality and timeless design that continue to impress nearly half a century later. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI14APRDA000