Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - 5625-7113 - Men - 1974

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of the highly collectible King Seiko 56KS series, a line of watches that represented the pinnacle of Japanese watchmaking in the 1970s alongside Grand Seiko. Renowned for its "Grammar of Design" case architecture and high-beat precision, this timepiece offers a sophisticated aesthetic that rivals Swiss contemporaries of the era. With its clean silver dial and sharp case lines, this specific reference is a versatile watch that embodies the golden age of Seiko mechanical engineering. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Hi-Beat Reference Number: 5625-7113 Serial Number: 482833 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5625B Dial: Silver Sunburst Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The watch presents very well with a sharp case and a remarkably clean dial, running within vintage tolerances with a timegrapher reading of +18 to +20 seconds per day which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in exceptional condition, retaining a bright and metallic sheen that catches the light beautifully. It features polished, multi-faceted applied baton hour markers with black inlays that provide excellent legibility and contrast. The matching dauphine hands are sharp and free from corrosion, maintaining the classic dress watch aesthetic. The applied "SEIKO" logo at twelve o'clock and the "KS" and "HI-BEAT" text at six o'clock are crisp and intact, while the framed date window at the three o'clock position adds practical utility without disrupting the dial's symmetry. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36mm and displays the distinctive angular lugs and flat surfaces associated with Tanaka's "Grammar of Design," giving the watch a strong presence on the wrist. The case is in honest vintage condition, showing visible surface scratches and signs of wear consistent with its age, yet the edges remain relatively defined. The original crown, signed with the "KS" logo, is present and functions correctly. The screw-down caseback features clearly legible engravings, including the reference and serial numbers. The crystal is clear and allows for an unobstructed view of the dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the robust Seiko Caliber 5625B automatic movement, a 25-jewel high-beat mechanism operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour. This movement was designed to offer superior accuracy and stability. The movement is clean and functional, currently running between +18 and +20 seconds per day, offering reliable vintage performance for daily wear. Strap The watch is fitted with a new brown leather strap featuring a crocodile grain pattern. The rich brown tone complements the silver dial perfectly, enhancing the vintage dress watch appeal and ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is rated in excellent vintage condition. While the case shows expected surface wear and scratches from decades of use, the dial remains in stunning preservation, free from significant spotting or damage. The movement is mechanically sound, and the overall presentation is that of a well-cared-for collector's piece. Dimensions The case diameter is 36mm excluding the crown, a classic size that fits a wide variety of wrist sizes comfortably. The lug design allows the watch to sit prominently yet elegantly on the wrist. Remarks The King Seiko 5625-7113 is often celebrated by collectors as one of the best value propositions in the world of vintage horology. It offers the finishing and mechanical prowess close to that of Grand Seiko models from the same period but often at a more accessible entry point. This specific example, dating to August 1974, is a fantastic representative of the line, combining historical significance with a timeless design that looks as modern today as it did fifty years ago. History Introduced during a period of intense internal rivalry between Seiko's Suwa and Daini factories, the King Seiko line was created to compete directly with Swiss chronometer-grade watches. The 56KS series, produced by Suwa Seikosha, became one of the most successful and widely produced high-end mechanical ranges for the brand. These watches played a pivotal role in establishing Seiko's reputation for precision and manufacturing excellence on the global stage, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts of Japanese horology today. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKH-0017