Seiko Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe 王錦 7606-7971 (1964)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe is a quintessential example of mid-1960s Japanese watchmaking, offering a refined step up from the standard Sportsmatic line. Produced in late 1964, this timepiece features the highly regarded "Deluxe" specification, distinguished by its dedicated date-change pusher at the 2 o'clock position and a higher jewel count. The warm gold-plated case combined with the classic silver sunburst dial creates a sophisticated vintage aesthetic that remains highly wearable today. Brand: Seiko Model: Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe Reference Number: 7606-7971 Serial Number: 4005742 Movement: Automatic Caliber 7606A Dial: Silver sunburst with applied gold markers Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated (EGP) Production Year: 1964 Condition: Good vintage condition with visible wear to the gold plating on the lugs and case edges, giving it an honest vintage character. The movement is running well with timegrapher results showing +20s to +25s/day, which indicates healthy movement operation. Dial and Hands The watch features an original silver sunburst dial that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with faceted applied gold baton indices and matching gold dauphine hands, which provide excellent legibility. The dial showcases the applied "Seiko Sportsmatic" and "5" logos, along with the "Deluxe" script. The period-correct "Water 30 Proof" text at 6 o'clock is a desirable detail for collectors, dating the watch prior to the industry shift to "Water Resist." There is a framed day-date window at 3 o'clock. The dial shows some light patina and minor spotting consistent with its age, adding to its vintage charm. Case and Crystal The 37mm case is finished in Seiko's EGP (Electro Gold Plate), offering a substantial wrist presence for a vintage dress watch. The case features the distinctive recessed crown at 4 o'clock and a dedicated push-button at 2 o'clock for quick-setting the date, a signature feature of the 7606 caliber. The case shows signs of use, with wear to the gold plating visible on the lug tips and edges where the base metal is peeking through. The stainless steel caseback retains the iconic dolphin motif and model inscriptions, though some surface scratches are present. Movement Powering the watch is the robust Seiko Caliber 7606A, a 23-jewel automatic movement featuring Diashock protection. This specific movement is historically interesting due to its separate date-change mechanism operated by the pusher. The movement is clean and is currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher readings between +20s and +25s per day, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring contrasting gold stitching, which complements the gold tones of the case and indices perfectly. The strap is in good condition and ready for immediate wear. Condition This piece is in good vintage condition. It shows honest wear commensurate with a 60-year-old gold-plated watch, particularly around the lugs and bezel edges. The dial remains attractive despite minor aging. The mechanics are sound, and the quick-set date function operates as designed. Dimensions Case diameter: 37 mm Lug width: 19 mm Remarks The Sportsmatic 5 Deluxe represents a sweet spot in Seiko collecting, bridging the gap between the entry-level 5 series and the higher-end King Seiko models of the era. This specific reference, with its "Proof" dial and dedicated date pusher, is a conversation starter that captures the optimistic design language of 1960s Japan. History Introduced in the 1960s, the Seiko Sportsmatic 5 set the standard for practical, durable automatic watches. The "5" stood for the five key attributes: automatic winding, day/date display usually in a single window, water resistance, recessed crown at 4 o'clock, and a durable case and bracelet. The Deluxe version elevated this concept with a better finish and the more complex 7606 movement, making it a premium choice for the salaryman of the mid-60s. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SSD-0023