Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5621-7022 - Men - 1974

Now available at auction from Second Vintage The King Seiko lineage represents a golden era of Japanese watchmaking, born from a fierce internal rivalry that pushed the boundaries of precision and design. This King Seiko Hi-Beat reference 5621-7022 is a masterful expression of that pursuit, offering a pure time-only layout that allows the exceptional finishing to take center stage. Crafted with the legendary "Grammar of Design" principles, this timepiece features sharp, faceted geometry and a high-frequency movement that defined Seiko's top-tier offerings in the 1970s. Preserved in beautiful condition, it stands as a highly collectible and wearable piece of horological history for the discerning enthusiast. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5621-7022 Serial Number: 430351 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5621B, 25 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean preservation Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably clean dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial of this King Seiko is a striking study in refined simplicity, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that radiates beautifully under the light. Upon close inspection, the dial presents in exceptionally clean condition, showing no visible spots, stains, moisture marks, or print loss, distinguishing it as a highly preserved example. The dial furniture includes applied, multi-faceted baton indices that catch the light from every angle, enhanced by crisp black center inserts at the cardinal hours and a prominent double baton at the twelve o'clock position. The applied "SEIKO" and "KS" logos stand proud of the surface, accompanied by the precisely printed "AUTOMATIC," "HI-BEAT," and the Suwa factory symbol. The time is indicated by sharp, polished dauphine hands featuring matching black center stripes and a slender needle sweep second hand, all of which remain crisp and free of oxidation. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel case embodies the classic King Seiko architecture, characterized by its sharp, angular lug profile and distinct transitions between the brushed upper surfaces and highly polished flanks. The case remains well-defined, showing honest, age-consistent signs of wear and superficial handling marks that do not detract from its strong geometric presence. A polished, stepped bezel frames the dial perfectly. The watch retains its original, deeply signed "KS" winding crown. Turning the watch over reveals a solid screw-down caseback with crisp, fully legible factory engravings, including the reference number 5621-7022, the Suwa logo, and the serial number 430351. The crystal is clear and well-preserved, offering an unobstructed view of the pristine dial beneath without any significant deep scratches or visual distortions. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko Caliber 5621B, a sophisticated 25-jewel automatic movement renowned for its high-beat precision and robust architecture. The movement surfaces are clean and well-maintained, with the rotor and bridges clearly stamped with the Seiko branding, jewel count, and caliber designation. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. (+39 to +44 s/d). Strap The watch is currently fitted with a handsome black textured leather strap featuring contrasting white edge stitching. The strap complements the stark, monochromatic aesthetic of the dial and indices, and it is secured to the wrist with a classic stainless steel tang buckle. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. It shows normal, honest vintage wear with a well-defined case that retains its factory lines and character. The dial is exceptionally preserved, appearing virtually flawless and free of the common aging or spotting often found in watches of this era. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter, excluding the signed crown. Remarks This King Seiko 5621-7022 is a superb example of Seiko's high-end vintage production. The absence of a date complication provides a perfectly symmetrical and uncluttered dial, making it a purist's delight. Its combination of a high-beat movement, iconic case design, and outstanding dial preservation makes it a highly desirable acquisition for any serious collector of vintage Japanese horology. History Introduced in the 1960s, the King Seiko line was developed by Daini Seikosha to compete directly with Suwa Seikosha's Grand Seiko, sparking an era of rapid innovation and uncompromising quality within the company. By the time the 56KS series was introduced in the early 1970s, production had shifted, and these models were actually produced by the Suwa division, representing a unique crossover in Seiko's internal history. The 56KS family is celebrated for introducing robust, automated high-beat calibers into elegant, slimmed-down cases, cementing King Seiko's legacy as a true icon of precision chronometry and enduring design. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKH-0027