Seiko - Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe 幽玄 (Yūgen) – Mysterious Grace - No reserve price - 7606-7992 - Men - 1965

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of the Seiko Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe, a premium iteration of the legendary Sportsmatic line that helped define Seiko's dominance in the 1960s. Distinguished by its "Deluxe" badging and the dedicated date-change pusher at the 2 o'clock position, this reference 7606-7992 offers a sophisticated step up from the standard models of the era. The watch features a substantial 37mm stainless steel case and a beautifully preserved sunburst dial that captures the light effortlessly, making it a highly desirable piece for collectors of Japanese horology. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe Reference Number: 7606-7992 Serial Number: 5500631 Movement: Seiko Caliber 7606A Automatic Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1965 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and well-preserved case, timegrapher results indicate approximately -58 to -60 seconds per day. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in stunning condition, free from significant aging or blemishes, and retains a crisp, radiant finish. It features substantial applied faceted indices and the specific "Deluxe" script above the 6 o'clock position, along with the "Water 30 Proof" designation. The dauphine-style hands are sharp and polished, complementing the applied Seiko "5" shield logo. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, maintaining the balanced symmetry of the design. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures a contemporary 37mm and presents sharp, thick lugs that give the watch a strong wrist presence. The unique configuration includes a recessed crown at the 4 o'clock position and a dedicated push-button for date quickset at the 2 o'clock position. The case surface shows normal signs of vintage wear with light handling marks but retains its original geometry. The screw-down caseback bears the serial number, though the central dolphin etching has worn smooth over decades of wear, which is common for this model. The crystal is clear and presents well. Movement Powering the watch is the robust Seiko Caliber 7606A automatic movement, a 23-jewel mechanism known for its durability. The movement appears clean and the rotor features distinct red specifications text. A timegrapher reading is provided showing a rate of approximately -58 to -60 seconds per day, indicating a healthy movement offering vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap featuring an alligator-style embossed pattern and black stitching. It is secured by a silver-tone buckle that complements the stainless steel case, offering a dressy and classic aesthetic suitable for both formal and casual wear. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the highlight, appearing nearly flawless, while the case shows honest wear consistent with its age but no signs of abuse. The movement is functioning with consistent amplitude, and the overall presentation is that of a well-cared-for vintage instrument. Dimensions The case diameter is 37 mm excluding the crown, which was considered a "jumbo" size for the era and wears exceptionally well by modern standards. The lug design adds to the substantial feel on the wrist. Remarks The Sportsmatic Deluxe is a significant model in Seiko's history, bridging the gap between the standard Sportsmatic and higher-end lines like the King Seiko. The inclusion of the 7606 movement with its dedicated date pusher adds a level of mechanical intrigue and convenience not found in the base models. Finding a Deluxe with a dial this clean is becoming increasingly difficult, making this a fantastic opportunity for the discerning collector. History Introduced in the early 1960s, the Seiko Sportsmatic 5 set the standard for practical, automatic everyday watches. The "5" stood for the five key attributes: automatic winding, day/date display, water resistance, a recessed crown at 4 o'clock, and a durable case. The Deluxe version was released to offer a higher jewel count and better finishing, representing the pinnacle of the Sportsmatic range before the widespread adoption of the 61xx series movements. This specific example, produced in May 1965, stands as a testament to Seiko's golden era of manufacturing. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSX-0014