Seiko - Type II - No reserve price - 0903-8140 - Men - 1976

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This Seiko Type II is a striking example of 1970s Japanese quartz design, showcasing an incredibly dynamic two-tone vertical gradient dial. The Type II line was instrumental in popularizing quartz technology, offering bold aesthetics and reliable performance. This particular model stands out with its sharply faceted case and a mesmerizing dial that shifts from deep blue to silver, perfectly capturing the experimental and confident styling of the era. It represents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a visually arresting and historically significant piece of Seiko's quartz heritage. Brand: Seiko Model: Type II Reference Number: 0903-8140 Serial Number: 6D0172 Movement: Quartz Caliber 0903 Dial: Vertical gradient blue and silver dial, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1976 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Seiko Type II is a true standout, featuring a vertical gradient pattern that transitions sharply from a rich, deep blue at the edges to a bright silver in the center. The surface has a subtle vertical brushing that catches the light beautifully, enhancing the two-tone effect. The applied, faceted hour markers feature black central stripes, matching the design of the baton hands, which also retain clean white inlays. The applied Seiko and Suwa factory logos are crisp and well-defined. A framed day-date window sits at the three o'clock position, displaying English and Kanji days. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, showing no visible spots, staining, or degradation, presenting a remarkably clean and vibrant appearance. Case and Crystal The 36mm stainless steel case features a distinct, angular design characteristic of the period. The broad, flat lugs exhibit strong factory vertical brushing, contrasting elegantly with the polished case sides and the polished, smoothly sloped bezel. The case lines remain sharp and well-defined, suggesting careful wear over the decades. Only light, honest handling marks and superficial scratches are visible, consistent with its age, without any deep dings or significant damage. The crystal is clear and free from major scratches, allowing an unobstructed view of the stunning dial beneath. The crown is neatly integrated into the case side at the three o'clock position. Movement The watch is powered by the Seiko quartz caliber 0903, a reliable and historically important movement from the early days of mass-market quartz watches. The caseback features a convenient battery hatch, a hallmark of early quartz designs, allowing for easy battery changes without opening the entire case. The caseback engravings, including the reference 0903-8140 and serial number 6D0172, remain crisp and fully legible, indicating a production date of December 1976. Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct stainless steel bracelet featuring a brick-link pattern. The bracelet shows a brushed finish that complements the case and appears to be in very good condition, with minimal stretch and only light surface wear. The folding clasp is stamped with "Maruman," a known manufacturer of aftermarket bracelets in Japan during that era. Condition This Seiko Type II is in excellent vintage condition. The case retains its sharp, factory-finished lines with only minor signs of use. The true highlight is the dial, which is flawlessly preserved, maintaining its vibrant colors and crisp printing. The hands and applied indices are equally pristine. The bracelet is well-matched and in good functional condition. Overall, it is a beautifully preserved example of a highly distinctive 1970s Seiko design. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Accommodate a wrist size of up to approximately 19 cm in circumference. Remarks The combination of the faceted case and the striking vertical gradient dial makes this Type II a highly desirable piece for collectors of vintage Seiko quartz. Its condition is exceptional, offering both significant wrist presence and a tangible link to the era when quartz technology was revolutionizing the watch industry. History Introduced in the mid-1970s, the Seiko Type II line was designed to bring quartz precision to a broader audience while offering some of the most adventurous and varied dial designs in Seiko's catalog. These watches often featured vibrant colors, unusual textures, and bold case shapes, reflecting the optimistic and experimental design language of the decade. Today, they are celebrated by collectors not only for their robust movements but also for their unique and expressive aesthetics, which remain incredibly striking and relevant. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-TDX-0001