Seiko - King Seiko Vanac 王錦 (Ōnishiki) – Royal Brocade - 5626-5050 - Men - 1972

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable opportunity to acquire a distinctive piece of Japanese horological history from the daring 1970s era. The King Seiko Vanac series represents a time when Seiko experimented with bold geometric designs, faceted crystals, and colorful dials.This specific example retains its original charm and rare integrated bracelet, making it a highly collectible find for enthusiasts of high-grade vintage Seikos who appreciate the unique design language of the Tanaka "Grammar of Design" era carried to its avant-garde extreme. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Reference Number: 5626-5050 Serial Number: 230085 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626 Dial: Silver Textured Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Fair vintage condition, showing clear signs of age and wear to the dial and crystal but retaining strong case geometry and functioning mechanics. Dial and Hands The watch features a striking silver textured dial that serves as the backdrop for the highly distinct Vanac design language. It displays raised, faceted geometric hour indices that catch the light dynamically. The hands are sharp and angular, complementing the overall aesthetic. A framed day and date window is positioned at the 3 o'clock mark. The dial shows evident signs of aging, with visible patina, spotting, and discoloration throughout, particularly near the edges and indices, which attests to its honest vintage nature. The original faceted crystal is present but shows notable wear, including scratches and chips along the angular edges and surface. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is a masterpiece of 1970s geometry, featuring a rectangular profile with sharp, angular facets that remain defined despite the watch's age. The case measures 35mm in width, though the square shape provides a larger presence on the wrist. There are visible surface scratches and handling marks throughout the case and bezel consistent with a watch that has been worn and enjoyed over five decades. The caseback clearly displays the reference 5626-5050 and the KS branding, preserving the serial number which dates production to March 1972. Movement Powering this timepiece is the high-grade Caliber 5626 automatic movement. This is a high-beat movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, known for its robustness and quality within the King Seiko lineage. The watch is currently running and functioning. Timegrapher results indicate a performance of +35 to +46 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap A significant highlight of this listing is the presence of the original stainless steel integrated bracelet. It features a unique geometric link design that perfectly flows from the case, a feature often lost on surviving examples. The bracelet is secured by the original clasp which is clearly signed with the "Vanac" logo. The bracelet is sized to fit a wrist circumference of approximately 17.5cm. Condition This timepiece is in fair vintage condition. It is an honest example that has not been over-polished, retaining the sharp architectural lines that Vanac collectors prize. The dial exhibits heavy patina and spotting. The proprietary faceted crystal shows obvious scratches and chipping on the edges. The case shows general wear appropriate for its age. Dimensions The case width is 35mm excluding the crown, with a lug-to-lug length that accommodates the integrated bracelet design for a comfortable fit. Remarks The King Seiko Vanac 5626-5050 is a rare and desirable reference for collectors of eccentric vintage Japanese watches. Finding one with the original signed bracelet is becoming increasingly difficult. While this example shows the scars of time on its dial and glass, it remains a mechanically sound and stylistically powerful representation of 1970s design. History King Seiko was established as a high-end internal competitor to Grand Seiko, designed to drive innovation and precision within the company. In the early 1970s, the Vanac sub-line was introduced to appeal to a younger, fashion-forward demographic. These watches utilized high-grade Chronometer-grade capable movements like the 56KS but housed them in funky, angular cases with faceted crystals and colorful dials. Today, the Vanac line is celebrated for its boldness and is considered a quintessential example of 1970s watch design culture. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKV-0007