Seiko 5 Sports Speedtimer 6139-6011 (1970)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage A highly sought-after cornerstone of vintage Japanese horology, this Seiko chronograph represents the golden era of automatic chronograph development. With its striking contrast dial, bold use of color, and historically significant movement, it is a quintessential piece for the discerning collector seeking both mechanical pedigree and undeniable wrist presence. Brand: Seiko Model: 5 Sports Speed-Timer Chronograph Reference Number: 6139-6011 Serial Number: 0D6013 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6139A, 21 Jewels Dial: Matte black with orange and blue accents, clean surface with creamy patinated lume plots Case Size: 39 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a remarkably well-preserved dial Dial and Hands The matte black dial is in outstanding vintage condition, showcasing a clean surface devoid of significant spotting or moisture damage. The typography remains remarkably crisp, featuring the vibrant orange Speed-Timer script and the distinctive blue 5 SPORTS logo, alongside the highly desirable WATER 70 PROOF designation. The applied, blocky luminous hour markers have aged gracefully to an even, creamy eggshell patina. The handset consists of polished baton hour and minute hands with luminous inserts that match the dial plots, complemented by a striking red central chronograph seconds hand and a vivid orange minute-counter hand within the sharply engine-turned subdial at six o'clock. The integrated inner tachymeter scale is fully legible and free from notable fading or print loss. Case and Crystal The 39 millimeter stainless steel case retains a strong and authentic profile, exhibiting the classic tonneau shape characteristic of the era. The transition between the circularly brushed upper surfaces and the highly polished case flanks remains well-defined. The case displays honest signs of wear, including localized surface scratches and minor handling marks consistent with regular use, yet avoids any heavily polished appearance. The flush-mounted crown at three o'clock and the traditional pump pushers at two and four o'clock are in excellent visual order. The watch is fitted with a flat crystal that presents clearly, offering an unobstructed view of the dial with only very faint superficial wear. Movement Inside beats the historically significant Seiko Caliber 6139A, a 21-jewel automatic chronograph movement. Close inspection of the movement reveals clean architecture with the appropriate factory engravings on the winding rotor and bridges. The chronograph mechanism features the iconic column wheel and vertical clutch system. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher records a deviation of -25-30s/day. Strap The timepiece is paired with a handsome black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching and a reddish lining. The strap is supple and in lightly worn condition, secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle that complements the robust nature of the case. Condition This Seiko is presented in good vintage condition. The case shows moderate, honest wear with surface scratches typical of a tool watch from this period, while the dial remains exceptionally well-preserved with highly attractive and even patina. The mechanical components are visually intact and represent a well-maintained example of a legendary reference. Dimensions The case measures 39 millimeters in diameter excluding the crown. Remarks The Proof dial 6139s are inherently rare and represent a narrow production window before international regulations mandated the shift to Resist dials, making this variant particularly compelling for serious Seiko enthusiasts. History Introduced in 1969, the Seiko 6139 caliber holds a contested and celebrated position as one of the world's first automatic chronograph movements. The Speed-Timer designation was historically reserved for the Japanese Domestic Market, offering advanced specifications such as a 21-jewel count compared to the 17-jewel variants exported globally. This specific model encapsulates the adventurous and colorful design language of early 1970s motorsport chronographs. / Second Vintage SKU: SEIEIHOEI0000