Seiko Weekdater 408998 (1964)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage The Seiko Weekdater stands as a brilliant testament to mid-century Japanese horological design, offering a sophisticated and highly legible layout that continues to captivate collectors today. Introduced in the early 1960s, the Seikomatic Weekdater line represented Seiko's push into premium automatic timepieces, distinguished by its elegant day window positioned prominently at six o'clock. This specific example, housed in a well-proportioned gold-plated case, perfectly captures the quintessential dress watch aesthetic of the era, combining mechanical excellence with timeless, refined styling. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic Weekdater Reference Number: 408998 Serial Number: 4433033 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 400, 33 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied gold-tone indices and signature six o'clock day window, presenting in beautifully preserved condition with only minor age-consistent patina. Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated (SGP) with Stainless Steel caseback Production Year: 1964 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and a highly attractive dial. Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in mid-century balance, featuring a radiant silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with applied, faceted gold-tone indices that perfectly complement the case. At the twelve o'clock position sits the applied gold-tone Seiko gyro logo, sitting proudly above the elegant serif and script typography. The hallmark of this model is the distinct day window at six o'clock, displaying the day in a striking blue font, balanced by a framed date window at three o'clock. The gold-tone dauphine hands remain sharp and legible. Careful inspection reveals the dial is remarkably well-preserved for its age, remaining largely clean with only very faint surface spotting visible under magnification. The hands and applied markers show slight, natural oxidation that adds authentic vintage character without detracting from the watch's impressive overall presentation. Case and Crystal The 37 millimeter gold-plated case features a classic, elegant profile with sharp, faceted lugs that retain their structural integrity. The recessed crown at the four o'clock position maintains the uninterrupted symmetry of the case flanks. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, showing minor surface wear consistent with age. The case exhibits honest signs of vintage wear, including light surface scratches and minor softening of the gold plating along the edges. The stainless steel snap-on caseback is stamped with the iconic Seiko dolphin motif, denoting its original water resistance, alongside the SGP hallmark, reference number 408998, and serial number 4433033. The caseback shows visible scratches from previous handling and opening, though all factory engravings remain fully legible. Movement Powering this Weekdater is the impressive 33-jewel Seikosha automatic movement, Caliber 400. The movement is a visual delight, featuring a beautifully finished gold-tone rotor proudly signed by Seikosha. Close inspection of the mechanism reveals clean plates and bridges, with the caliber number 400 clearly stamped near the balance assembly. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. Timegrapher results indicate a performance of +50 to +56 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct brown alligator-grain leather strap, secured with a matching gold-tone pin buckle. The rich brown tones of the leather provide a striking contrast to the silver dial and perfectly complement the gold-plated case, enhancing the dressy appeal of the timepiece. Condition This Seikomatic Weekdater is presented in good vintage condition. It offers a highly attractive, well-preserved dial that immediately draws the eye, paired with a case that shows honest, age-appropriate wear. The scratches on the stainless steel caseback and the light wear to the gold plating are testaments to its history, while the overall aesthetic remains undeniably elegant and ready for continued enjoyment. Dimensions The case measures a contemporary and versatile 37 mm in diameter, excluding the recessed crown, providing significant wrist presence while maintaining a slender and comfortable profile suitable for any occasion. Remarks Watches featuring the six o'clock day display hold a special place in Seiko's design history, offering a symmetrical and highly readable alternative to the traditional three o'clock day-date configuration. This configuration, paired with the high-jewel Seikosha movement, makes this a compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese horology. History The Seikomatic line was launched in the early 1960s as Seiko's premier range of automatic watches, designed to offer reliability, precision, and modern convenience. The introduction of the Weekdater added a highly practical calendar function, utilizing a unique layout that quickly became a signature of the era. These timepieces were instrumental in establishing Seiko's reputation for producing sophisticated, high-quality automatic movements, paving the way for the brand's enduring global success in the decades that followed. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SWX-0001