Seiko King Seiko Hi-Beat 王華 (Ōka) 281316 (1972)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This outstanding King Seiko Hi-Beat from Seiko stands as a true testament to the precision and refinement of 1970s Japanese watchmaking. The King Seiko line has achieved legendary status among collectors for its high-frequency movements, sharp case lines, and elegant, minimalist dials. This example presents beautifully, balancing wearability with a level of preservation that is rarely encountered today. With its crisp details and exceptional presence, this King Seiko Hi-Beat is an excellent addition to any vintage collection. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 281316 Serial Number: 281316 Movement: Automatic (Hi-Beat) Dial: Silver sunburst, applied indices, day-date at 3 o’clock Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with only a subtle mark near 2 o’clock on the dial. Running at +30 to +37 seconds/day on timegrapher, indicating a healthy vintage movement. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is luminous and refined, with meticulously finished baton indices and sharp faceted hands that maintain their original luster. Applied King Seiko and Hi-Beat emblems retain crisp definition. A minor mark at 2 o’clock is visible upon close inspection, blending into the dial’s overall attractive presentation. The day-date window at 3 o’clock is both practical and well-integrated into the design. Light patina on the lume plots enhances the watch’s authentic vintage appeal. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case exemplifies the angular, architectural profiles for which King Seiko is famous. Surfaces retain sharp edges with minimal wear, preserving the original lines and striking presence. The crystal is clear and free of significant scratches, ensuring the dial’s full impact is on display. Movement Inside is Seiko’s renowned Hi-Beat automatic movement, designed for accuracy and longevity. A recent timegrapher reading shows the watch running at +30 to +37 seconds per day—impressive for a vintage piece, and indicative of a robust, reliable movement. Strap The watch is fitted with a textured black strap accented by white stitching, providing stylish contrast and modern comfort that accentuates the case design. Condition This King Seiko Hi-Beat remains in excellent overall condition with only modest signs of wear. The case is sharp and well-preserved; the dial is clean aside from a minor, unobtrusive mark at 2 o’clock. Lume and hands are original and well aged. The movement is running within vintage tolerances as demonstrated by timegrapher results. Dimensions Case diameter: 37 mm (excluding crown) Remarks A seldom-seen opportunity to acquire a King Seiko Hi-Beat in such remarkable original condition. The subtle dial mark does not detract from its classic beauty or collector value. The 37mm case wears elegantly, while the renowned Hi-Beat movement underscores the watch’s technical pedigree. This is a choice piece for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a vintage Seiko with undeniable presence and historical significance. History The King Seiko collection was conceived to exemplify Seiko’s dedication to mechanical excellence and fine design, offering a rival to Grand Seiko during the brand’s golden era. Hi-Beat models are particularly prized for their advanced movement architecture and distinctive style. This reference serves as an enduring icon of Seiko’s innovation in the 1970s, cherished by vintage watch collectors around the world. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI19QFA7S000