Seiko 5 Sports Speed-Timer 7017-8000 (1970)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This sought-after Japanese Domestic Market Seiko 5 Sports Speed-Timer is distinguished by its early and highly collectible 'Water 70m Proof' dial text. Powered by the record-setting caliber 7017A automatic flyback chronograph movement, this 1970 example remains in remarkably well-preserved condition, complete with its vibrant original handset and signed folded-link bracelet. Brand: Seiko Model: 5 Sports Speed-Timer Reference Number: 7017-8000 Serial Number: 0N0768 Movement: Automatic flyback chronograph, caliber 7017A Dial: Matte black with vibrant orange inner track and 'Water 70m Proof' text Case Size: 40mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1970 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Movement serviced on 14 September 2026. Timegrapher: +10+15s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The highly legible and well-preserved sports dial features a matte black main surface framed by a vibrant orange inner track. All printed text remains crisp, prominently displaying the highly desirable 'WATER 70m PROOF' designation. The luminous material on the block indices shows a light, even aging, with no significant spotting, staining, or damage visible. The clean and visually striking original handset includes white baton hour and minute hands with luminous fills that perfectly match the dial markers, alongside a distinctive orange chronograph sweep hand that remains bright and intact, showing no significant corrosion or paint loss. Case and Crystal The stainless steel cushion case displays honest vintage wear with its preserved original finishing lines, featuring brushed upper surfaces contrasting with polished flanks. It shows moderate surface scratches and minor dings consistent with age and use, though the case edges and geometry remain reasonably well-defined. The fixed inner decimal and minute track is clean and fully legible, while the outer polished steel case lip exhibits light surface scratches consistent with the rest of the case. A correct, unsigned recessed crown sits at the 3 o'clock position, flanked by chronograph pushers that show light wear but appear structurally sound. The flat mineral crystal is clear, with no major scratches, chips, or cracks visible. Movement Inside is the automatic flyback chronograph caliber 7017A, engraved with "SEIKO" and "JAPAN". The movement is visually clean, showing no obvious signs of heavy corrosion or moisture damage, though the rotor exhibits some light surface scratches. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The movement was serviced on 14 September 2026. Strap The watch is fitted with its original signed stainless steel folded-link bracelet, an authentic period piece with expected vintage wear. The clasp is clearly signed 'SEIKO 5 SPORTS', and the endlinks are stamped 'XAA' and '271'. The bracelet shows moderate stretch and surface scratches typical of its age, and accommodates a maximum wrist size of 18cm. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The movement was serviced on 14 September 2026 and, supported by the recorded timegrapher result, is performing very strongly. The dial and hands are beautifully preserved, showing only light, even aging to the luminous material and no significant wear. The cushion case displays honest vintage character, with preserved finishing lines alongside moderate surface scratches and minor dings. The flat mineral crystal is clear and free of major flaws. The original signed bracelet exhibits moderate stretch and surface wear typical for its age. Dimensions 40mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This 5 Sports Speed-Timer is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a highly original Japanese Domestic Market chronograph. The combination of the early 'Water 70m Proof' dial, the innovative flyback caliber, and the presence of its original signed bracelet makes it a compelling addition to any serious Seiko collection. History Introduced by Seiko's Daini division in 1970 as a response to the Suwa division's 6139, the caliber 7017 set a record upon its release as the thinnest automatic chronograph in the world, measuring just 5.9mm thick. This 21-jewel movement, operating at 21,600 beats per hour, features a sophisticated flyback complication that allows the user to reset the chronograph sweep hand without having to stop it first. The entire 7017 line was produced exclusively for the Japanese Domestic Market under the "Speed-Timer" designation, with no export variants manufactured, cementing its status today as a highly sought-after vintage Seiko. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SST-0004