Seiko King Seiko Vanac Special 5246-6050 (1972)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This exceptional Seiko King Seiko Vanac Special is a definitive representation of 1970s Japanese watch design, combining the high-grade engineering of the King Seiko line with an avant-garde aesthetic. This specific reference features a mesmerizing green gradient dial and the highly desirable Caliber 5246 movement, historically renowned for its precision and durability. It represents a fascinating era where Daini Seikosha pushed the boundaries of style and mechanical excellence, making it a highly collectible piece for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese horology. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Special Reference Number: 5246-6050 Serial Number: 2D0108 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5246A Dial: Green Gradient Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Good vintage condition with visible signs of wear consistent with age, featuring a well-preserved dial and a movement running within vintage tolerances. Dial and Hands The watch features a striking green gradient dial that transitions from a lighter center to a darker periphery, creating a captivating sunburst effect. It is adorned with applied silver baton indices and the distinct gold-tone "KS" logo applied at the 6 o'clock position, situated above the green "VANAC" and white "SPECIAL" typography. The Daini Seikosha lightning bolt logo is present, confirming its manufacture origin. A framed day and date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The original faceted crystal is a signature element of the Vanac line, adding unique depth and light play to the face of the watch, though it shows some scratches and edge wear consistent with its vintage nature. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case showcases the sharp, geometric lines characteristic of Seiko's "Grammar of Design" era, modified with the funkier, angular approach of the Vanac series. The case preserves its original definition with visible surface scratches and handling marks typical of a watch from the early 1970s. The crown is original and signed with the "KS" logo. The faceted mineral glass crystal remains original to the watch, showing wear on the faceted edges that attests to its history while still providing a clear view of the dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the highly regarded Caliber 5246A automatic movement, a high-grade 25-jewel engine that was officially designated as "Special" by Seiko, indicating a higher standard of adjustment and precision than standard models. The movement appears clean and features the signed oscillating weight. Timegrapher results indicate the watch is running between +9 and +14 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a Seiko stainless steel integrated bracelet, featuring a distinctive geometric link design that perfectly complements the angular case. The clasp is signed with the Seiko logo. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of approximately 18.5 cm and shows moderate stretch and surface wear consistent with the condition of the case. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The dial remains clean and attractive with minimal aging. The case and bracelet show honest wear with scratches and scuffs expected from a watch produced in 1972. The faceted crystal shows signs of use on the ridges. Mechanically, the watch is performing well for its age. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic vintage proportion that wears slightly larger due to the angular case design and integrated bracelet. Remarks The King Seiko Vanac Special is a rare and sought-after model that encapsulates the bold experimentation of the 1970s. With its high-beat base movement architecture and unique faceted crystal, it stands out as a sophisticated yet playful example of high-end Seiko manufacturing. History King Seiko was produced by the Daini Seikosha factory as a competitor to the Suwa Seikosha factory's Grand Seiko, created to drive internal innovation through rivalry. The Vanac sub-line was introduced in the 1970s to appeal to a younger, fashion-forward demographic, utilizing high-grade King Seiko movements inside bold, colorful, and angular designs. The "Special" designation on the dial signifies that this caliber was adjusted to a higher standard of accuracy, making it not just a design object but a piece of serious horological engineering. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKV-0011