Seiko - Seikomatic-R - No reserve price - 8346-8000 - Men - 1966

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of mid-century Japanese horology, representing the sophisticated design language of the 1960s. The Seikomatic-R was positioned as a high-grade automatic line, often serving as a foundation for what would later become the Grand Seiko automatic standards. With its concealed crown and balanced case proportions, this 1966 timepiece offers a dressy, streamlined profile that remains timeless. The combination of the warm gold-plated case and the crisp silver sunburst dial makes this a versatile collector's piece, suitable for both formal occasions and daily wear. Brand: Seiko Model: Seikomatic-R Reference Number: 8346-8000 Serial Number: 6067280 Movement: Automatic Caliber 8346, 27 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold indices Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated (SGP) Production Year: 1966 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a well-preserved dial and case showing honest wear consistent with age. Dial and Hands The watch features a stunning silver sunburst dial that catches the light beautifully, remaining in exceptional condition for its age. It is adorned with multi-faceted applied gold baton indices, with a double marker at the 12 o'clock position for visual orientation. The sharp, gold dauphine hands are clean and provide excellent legibility against the silver background. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, adding practical utility to the elegant design. The text "Diashock 27 Jewels" is printed crisply above the 6 o'clock marker. Case and Crystal The case is finished in Seiko Gold Plate (SGP) and features the distinctive recessed crown at the 4 o'clock position, a signature design element of the Seikomatic line that creates a perfectly symmetrical silhouette. The case measures 37mm in diameter, offering a modern presence on the wrist. The plating shows light surface marks and honest vintage wear appropriate for a watch from 1966, but retains a strong luster. The stainless steel caseback features the iconic dolphin emblem and "Water Proof" engraving, ensuring the reference and serial numbers are clearly legible. The crystal is clear and free of distracting marks. Movement Powering this timepiece is the robust Seiko Caliber 8346 automatic movement. This 27-jewel mechanism is equipped with Diashock shock protection and is known for its durability. The movement presents cleanly and is running with a daily deviation of approximately +22 to +30 seconds, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality brown leather strap with an alligator grain pattern and contrasting stitching. The rich tones of the leather perfectly complement the gold finish of the case, secured by a matching gold-tone buckle. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the highlight, appearing nearly flawless to the naked eye. The case retains its original definition with some softening of the edges and surface scratches typical of a gold-plated watch of this vintage, but no significant damage or deep gouges. The movement is clean and functioning within vintage parameters. Dimensions The case diameter is 37 mm excluding the crown, with a lug-to-lug length that accommodates most wrist sizes comfortably. The lug width allows for standard strap replacements should the new owner desire a different look. Remarks The Seikomatic-R reference 8346-8000 is a fantastic entry point into vintage Seiko collecting, offering high-end finishing and a robust movement at an accessible level. The presence of the "Dolphin" caseback is a detail beloved by collectors, signifying the water-resistant specification of the era. This specific example, dating to October 1966, captures the essence of the "Grammar of Design" era that would come to define Seiko's global success. History Introduced in the early 1960s, the Seikomatic line was Seiko's push to popularize automatic watches in the Japanese market. The "R" series, utilizing the 8300-family of movements, was designed to be slimmer and more refined than previous automatic models. These watches were manufactured by the Suwa Seikosha factory and played a pivotal role in establishing Seiko as a manufacturer capable of producing world-class mechanical movements that could rival their Swiss counterparts in both accuracy and durability. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SRX-0001