Seiko 5 Actus SS 悠久 (Yūkyū) 6106-8450 (1970)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This distinctive Seiko 5 Actus SS represents the vibrant design language of the early 1970s Japanese Domestic Market. Featuring the desirable "SS" (Second Setting) hacking capability and a robust cushion-style case, this example dates specifically to February 1970, marked by the collectable "Waterproof" designation on the caseback which indicates an early production run before the transition to water-resistant stamping. Brand: Seiko Model: 5 Actus SS Reference Number: 6106-8450 Serial Number: 024750 Movement: Automatic Caliber 6106C Dial: Silver sunburst Case Size: 39 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Good vintage condition, showing honest wear and patina consistent with its age and history. Dial and Hands The watch features a silver sunburst dial adorned with applied baton indices and the distinct "5 Actus" and "SS" logos. A framed day and date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial surface exhibits visible patina and aging spots, particularly noticeable around the outer periphery and indices, adding to its vintage character. The baton hands show signs of age-appropriate oxidation and lume aging. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a bold cushion or "UFO" shape characteristic of the era, with concealed lugs and sweeping polished sides. The case shows general wear, including surface scratches and dings commensurate with a watch of this age. The caseback clearly displays the reference 6106-8450 and the "Waterproof" inscription, preserving its factory engravings. The crystal shows some surface wear. Movement Powered by the robust Seiko Caliber 6106C automatic movement with 23 jewels. This movement is notable for introducing the "SS" or Second Setting hacking feature, allowing for precise time synchronization. The movement plates and rotor show visible oxidation and cosmetic aging, but the mechanism is running within vintage tolerances, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern, complemented by a stainless steel buckle. The strap appears to be in clean condition and ready for wear. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While it displays cosmetic signs of age such as dial spotting and case wear, it retains its original structural integrity. The "Waterproof" caseback and functioning 6106C movement make it a solid example for collectors who appreciate honest, unrestored vintage pieces. Dimensions The case measures 39 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a substantial wrist presence due to the cushion case design. Remarks The 5 Actus SS series was a higher-specification tier within the Seiko 5 family, designed for the Japanese market. This specific reference is desirable for its hacking movement and the early 1970 production date confirmed by the "Waterproof" text, a feature that was phased out shortly after in favor of "Water Resistant." History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Seiko 5 Actus line was targeted at Japan's young professionals, offering a blend of style, durability, and advanced features like the hacking 6106 movement. These watches captured the energetic aesthetic of the 1970s and remain a popular entry point into vintage JDM collecting today. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI16R3QYT000