Seiko - Sportsmatic 5 王鏡 (Ō Kagami) – Royal Mirror - No reserve price - 6619-8110 - Men - 1966

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a quintessential example of Japanese watchmaking history, representing the golden era of Seiko's rise to global dominance. The Seiko Sportsmatic 5 is a significant model that laid the foundation for the legendary "Seiko 5" line, combining durability, practicality, and elegant design. This specific example from 1966 features the highly collectible "Dolphin" caseback and a stunning sunburst dial that captures the light beautifully. With its recessed crown and clean lines, this timepiece offers a sophisticated aesthetic that bridges the gap between a dress watch and a daily driver, making it a perfect addition for collectors of significant vintage Japanese horology. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportsmatic 5 Reference Number: 6619-8110 Serial Number: 6502032 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6619A Dial: Silver sunburst with day and date Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated (SGP) Production Year: May 1966 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive vintage appearance with visible wear to the gold plating on the lugs and case edges consistent with its age, while the dial remains exceptionally clean and legible. Dial and Hands The dial is a standout feature, presenting a lustrous silver sunburst finish that radiates from the center. It is adorned with substantial applied gold-tone block indices that catch the light, matching the sharp gold-tone Dauphine hands. The applied "Seiko Sportsmatic" branding and the iconic "5" shield logo are crisp and intact. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, adding to the functional symmetry of the face. The text "Waterproof Diashock 21 Jewels" at the 6 o'clock position speaks to the robust specifications of this era. Case and Crystal The 37mm case is crafted with Seiko's Gold Plating (SGP) and features the characteristic recessed crown at the 4 o'clock position, a design choice intended to streamline the case profile and improve comfort. The case retains its original form, though it shows honest signs of age with plating wear visible on the high points of the lugs and bezel edges, adding to the vintage charm. The stainless steel caseback features the embossed Dolphin motif, a hallmark of the Sportsmatic Waterproof series, along with clear engravings of the reference and serial numbers. The crystal is clear with only minor signs of handling, ensuring excellent visibility of the dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the reliable Seiko Caliber 6619A automatic movement. This 21-jewel mechanism is a workhorse of the era, known for its "Magic Lever" winding system. Timegrapher testing indicates a deviation of approximately -60 to -63 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement running within acceptable vintage parameters. Strap The watch has been fitted with a high-quality reddish-brown leather strap with an embossed alligator grain. The rich burgundy tones of the leather provide a striking contrast to the gold-tone case and silver dial, elevating the overall dressy appearance of the watch. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the case shows expected wear and fading to the gold plating typically seen on Seiko models from the mid-1960s, the structural integrity is excellent. The dial is remarkably well-preserved, free from heavy staining or damage. Dimensions With a case diameter of 37 mm, this watch offers a substantial presence on the wrist for a vintage piece, appearing slightly larger due to the thin bezel and expansive dial design. The lug-to-lug length ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The Seiko Sportsmatic 5 Reference 6619-8110 is a piece of history that wears its age with dignity. The combination of the Dolphin caseback, the recessed crown, and the early "5" branding makes this a desirable variant for enthusiasts. It is a charming example of 1960s design language, offering reliable vintage performance and a style that remains timeless. History Introduced in 1963, the Seiko Sportsmatic 5 was a revolutionary concept that set a new standard for affordable, high-quality mechanical watches. It was defined by five key attributes: an automatic movement, a day-date display in a single window, significant water resistance, a recessed crown at 4 o'clock, and a durable case and bracelet. This model helped establish Seiko's reputation for creating watches that could withstand the rigors of daily life while looking elegant, a philosophy that continues to define the brand today. / Second Vintage SKU: SEIDJLGL20000