Tissot - Seastar T.12 - No reserve price - 43514 / 44514-7 - Men - 1963

Description: Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Tissot Automatic Seastar T.12 represents a classic era of Swiss watchmaking, offering a robust and elegant design that has stood the test of time. With its distinctive case shape and clean dial layout, it embodies the practical yet refined aesthetic that made the Seastar line so popular among mid-century enthusiasts. The presence of the iconic galleon ship on the caseback further solidifies its heritage as a reliable companion for both daily wear and more adventurous pursuits. Brand: Tissot Model: Seastar T.12 Reference Number: 43514 / 44514-7 Serial Number: 6360528 Movement: Tissot Caliber 783, 21 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, showing light, even aging Case Size: 36 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1963 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a well-preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial features a beautiful silver sunburst finish that plays wonderfully with the light. It is adorned with applied, faceted baton indices featuring black inserts that provide excellent contrast and legibility. The applied Tissot logo sits proudly beneath the 12 o'clock marker, while the "Automatic Seastar T.12" text is cleanly printed in the lower half. The dial shows a very light, even stardust patina consistent with its age, maintaining a clean and attractive appearance overall. The original dauphine hands exhibit some surface oxidation and aging, particularly on the minute hand, which adds to the authentic vintage character of the piece. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel case showcases a distinctive tonneau-inspired shape with broad, angular lugs. The case retains strong lines and factory proportions, exhibiting honest signs of wear including light scratches and scuffs typical of a watch from this era. The polished bezel frames the dial nicely, while the original Tissot-signed crown remains present and functional. The caseback features the deeply engraved Tissot galleon ship, a hallmark of the Seastar line, which remains crisp and well-defined. The domed acrylic crystal is clear, allowing an unobstructed view of the dial beneath. Movement Powering this Seastar is the reliable Tissot Caliber 783 automatic movement, featuring 21 jewels. The movement is clean and displays the typical finishing of the period. The serial number 6360528 and caliber designation 783 are clearly visible on the movement plates. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher indicates a performance of -13 to -15 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a modern black textured leather strap with contrasting white stitching, complementing the black accents on the dial and providing a comfortable fit for daily wear. Condition This Tissot Seastar T.12 is in good vintage condition. The case shows normal, honest wear with some surface scratches, but retains its structural integrity and distinct shape. The dial is very well preserved with only minor, attractive aging. The hands show expected oxidation. The movement is running strong and the caseback engraving remains exceptionally sharp. Dimensions Case Width: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This Seastar T.12 is a fantastic example of Tissot's mid-century design language. Its combination of a durable steel case, a reliable automatic movement, and a timeless dial design makes it a versatile addition to any vintage collection. History Tissot introduced the Seastar line in the 1950s as a collection of robust, water-resistant watches designed for active individuals. The T.12 models, in particular, were known for their enhanced durability and distinctive styling, often featuring the recognizable galleon ship caseback. These watches were built to withstand the rigors of daily life while maintaining an elegant appearance suitable for any occasion. Today, they remain highly regarded by collectors for their historical significance, reliable mechanics, and classic aesthetic appeal. / Second Vintage SKU: TIS-TAS-0001