Seiko - King Seiko Hi-Beat - No reserve price - 5626-7080 - Men - 1971

Now available at auction from Second Vintage A quintessential example of Japanese horological mastery, this King Seiko reference 5626-7080 embodies the rigorous standards and sharp aesthetics that defined Seiko's golden era. Crafted with the famous "Grammar of Design" principles, this timepiece features an impeccably sharp case profile and a high-frequency movement that rivaled the finest Swiss chronometers of its day. The presence of a perfectly preserved gold caseback medallion elevates this piece, making it a highly desirable acquisition for discerning collectors of vintage Seiko. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Reference Number: 5626-7080 Serial Number: 171032 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626 Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean and well-preserved Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1971 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and intact gold medallion Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is a masterclass in understated elegance, catching the light beautifully and remaining exceptionally clean for its age. It features applied faceted baton indices, each precisely detailed with a central black stripe that enhances legibility. The applied "SEIKO" and "KS" logos at 12 and 6 o'clock respectively add wonderful depth, balanced by the framed day-date aperture at 3 o'clock. The faceted dauphine hands mirror the indices with their own black central lines, remaining sharp and free of oxidation. Close inspection reveals a dial that has been remarkably well-preserved, showing no visible spotting, moisture damage, or discoloration. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel case displays the iconic faceted architecture characteristic of King Seiko. The sharp, sweeping lugs retain their distinct factory chamfers, showcasing a brilliant contrast between the brushed upper surfaces and polished flanks. The case exhibits only honest, superficial handling marks consistent with careful wear, avoiding the softened edges often seen on heavily polished vintage pieces. The original "KS" signed crown remains crisp and functional. Turning the watch over reveals a pristine gold King Seiko medallion set into the caseback, a delicate feature that is often heavily worn or missing entirely on lesser examples. The flat crystal remains clear, offering an unobstructed view of the dial, with only minor surface wear visible under high magnification. Movement Powered by the esteemed Caliber 5626, this automatic Hi-Beat movement represents the pinnacle of Seiko's technical achievements in the early 1970s. Operating at a higher frequency, it provides a smooth sweep of the seconds hand and enhanced chronometric stability. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. (+4s to +8s/day with strong amplitude). Strap The watch is fitted with a handsome dark brown leather strap, featuring white contrast stitching that complements the vintage character of the timepiece. The strap is supple and in excellent condition, securing with a classic stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This King Seiko survives in excellent vintage condition. The case geometry remains remarkably sharp, highlighting the original design intentions. The dial and hands are wonderfully preserved, free from the ravages of time and moisture. The exceptional condition of the gold caseback medallion further underscores the careful ownership this watch has enjoyed over the decades. It is a highly attractive and structurally sound vintage timepiece. Dimensions Case Width: 36 mm (excluding crown) Remarks Finding a vintage King Seiko with a dial this clean, case lines this sharp, and a fully intact gold medallion is becoming increasingly difficult. This reference 5626-7080 offers everything a collector looks for in classic Japanese horology: historical significance, mechanical excellence, and timeless design. It is ready to be worn and admired. History Introduced in the 1960s as an internal rival to Grand Seiko, the King Seiko line was created to push the boundaries of precision and design. Manufactured by the Daini Seikosha factory, King Seiko models were characterized by their sharp, angular case designs and high-grade movements. The 56KS series, introduced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, utilized automated manufacturing techniques to produce incredibly reliable and accurate Hi-Beat movements. Today, these watches are celebrated by collectors worldwide as prime examples of Seiko's relentless pursuit of perfection during the mechanical watchmaking era. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAK-0008