Seiko - King Seiko Vanac 煌帝 (Kōtei) – Radiant Emperor - 5626-5050 - Men - 1972

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This is a truly exceptional example of 1970s Japanese avant-garde design, represented by the highly collectible King Seiko Vanac. This particular reference 5626-5050 is a standout piece for collectors, featuring a mesmerizing electric blue dial and, most importantly, retaining its rare original stainless steel bracelet with the coveted "Vanac" signed clasp. As a part of the high-grade King Seiko line, this watch combines a chronometer-grade movement with a bold, geometric aesthetic that defines the funkiest era of horology. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Reference Number: 5626-5050 Serial Number: 241299 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5626 Dial: Electric blue faceted texture Case Size: 35 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents honest signs of wear consistent with age, while the dial remains in stunning condition. The movement is functioning, with timegrapher results showing +42 to +45 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement. Dial and Hands The centerpiece of this timepiece is the striking electric blue dial which features a vertical gradient texture that plays beautifully with the light. The dial is furnished with distinct, high-profile polished steel block indices that add significant depth to the face. The hands are sharp and clean, featuring black inserts for contrast. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial is viewed through the original multi-faceted crystal which is a signature of the Vanac line, creating a unique prismatic effect. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is a masterclass in 1970s geometric design, featuring sharp angles and a distinctive square profile with integrated lugs. The case preserves its original architectural lines and brushed surfaces, showing honest wear and scratches commensurate with its age. The faceted mineral glass crystal shows signs of use with scratches visible on the angular facets, which is typical for these unique vintage components, yet it remains clear enough to showcase the vibrant dial beneath. Movement Powering this watch is the high-grade Seiko Caliber 5626 automatic movement. This movement was one of the pillars of the King Seiko line, known for its robust construction and high beat rate. It offers a quickset day and date function and hacking seconds capability. The movement is clean and operational, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap A significant highlight of this lot is the presence of the original, integrated stainless steel bracelet. It features a complex geometric link design that perfectly flows from the angular case. Most notably, it retains the original folding clasp clearly stamped with the "Vanac" logo, a detail often lost over the decades. The bracelet fits a wrist size of approximately 18 cm. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. The case shows visible surface marks and scratches throughout, consistent with honest wear, but retains strong definition on its edges. The faceted crystal has surface scratches. The dial is in excellent preservation with vibrant color and no visible staining or damage. The bracelet shows normal stretch and wear but remains structurally sound. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in width excluding the crown, offering a classic vintage proportion that wears larger due to the square case shape and integrated bracelet design. Remarks Finding a King Seiko Vanac with this level of original integrity is becoming increasingly difficult. The combination of the vibrant blue dial and the factory-original bracelet makes this a collector-grade example. It represents a specific moment in Seiko's history where high-precision engineering met daring, artistic design. History The Vanac series was introduced by Seiko in the early 1970s as a sub-line of the premium King Seiko brand. It was Seiko's answer to the mod culture and changing fashion trends of the era, utilizing the high-beat, high-quality movements of King Seiko but housing them in colorful, angular, and experimental cases. These watches were produced for a short period, making them rare and highly sought after by enthusiasts of vintage Japanese horology today. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI6M4V1Q0000