Seiko - King Seiko Vanac Special - No reserve price - 5256-5000 - Men - 1973

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The King Seiko Vanac line represents one of the most daring and expressive eras of Seiko's design history. Characterized by bold geometry, striking colors, and dramatic faceted crystals, the Vanac series perfectly captured the experimental spirit of the 1970s. This particular King Seiko Vanac Special combines that flamboyant aesthetic with the high-grade mechanical pedigree of Daini Seikosha, offering collectors a visually captivating and historically significant piece of vintage Japanese horology. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Vanac Special Reference Number: 5256-5000 Serial Number: 394236 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5256 Dial: Vibrant blue vertically brushed dial with applied gold-tone markers, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The dial of this King Seiko Vanac Special is a stunning example of 1970s Seiko design, featuring a deep, vibrant blue hue with a subtle vertical brushing that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with prominent, applied gold-tone block indices featuring white central accents, adding significant depth and character to the display. The dial text, including the applied "SEIKO" logo, the stylized "VANAC" script, and the printed "KS SPECIAL" alongside the Daini Seikosha lightning bolt logo, remains crisp and fully intact. A gold-framed day-date aperture sits cleanly at the three o'clock position. The original silver-tone hour and minute hands feature black striping and white inserts, complemented by a sweeping white seconds hand. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, showing virtually no signs of spotting, moisture damage, or degradation, presenting a remarkably clean and striking aesthetic. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 35mm and boasts the highly distinctive, angular geometry characteristic of the Vanac line. The case retains its factory finishes remarkably well, with prominent horizontal brushing on the broad top and bottom surfaces contrasting sharply against the polished angled flanks. The lug profiles remain crisp and well-defined, indicating careful preservation over the decades. The watch is fitted with a dramatic, multi-faceted crystal that enhances the retro-futuristic appeal of the dial beneath it; the crystal remains clear and highly presentable, showing only minor, honest signs of careful wear. The original KS-signed crown sits flush against the case side, and the solid stainless steel caseback cleanly displays the engraved KS logo, along with clear reference and serial numbers. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko automatic Caliber 5256, a high-grade movement from the Daini factory known for its reliability and precision. The caseback markings confirm the 5256-5000 reference. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -22 to -27 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a striking black textured leather strap, featuring distinctive double-row contrast stitching in white and vibrant yellow-orange. The strap complements the bold 1970s aesthetic of the watch and is secured with a standard stainless steel pin buckle. Condition This King Seiko Vanac Special is in excellent vintage condition. The case retains sharp geometry and clear factory brushing, with only light, honest handling marks consistent with careful use. The vibrant blue dial is exceptionally clean and well-preserved, free from notable flaws or blemishes. The faceted crystal adds immense character and remains in highly attractive condition. Dimensions Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks With its highly faceted crystal, bold case architecture, and vibrant dial, this 5256-5000 reference is a quintessential piece of 1970s horology. Finding a Vanac Special with such a well-preserved dial and sharp case lines makes this a compelling opportunity for collectors of vintage Japanese timepieces who appreciate unique and expressive design. History Introduced in the early 1970s, the Vanac series was a flamboyant offshoot of the King Seiko line, designed to capture the vibrant and experimental spirit of the decade. Characterized by brightly colored dials, asymmetrical or highly angular cases, and dramatically faceted crystals, the Vanac models stood in stark contrast to the conservative designs of previous King Seiko generations. The "Special" designation, combined with the high-beat 52-series movements produced by Daini Seikosha, ensured that these watches were not only visually striking but also mechanically superior. Today, the Vanac series is celebrated by collectors for its unapologetic retro aesthetic and its representation of Seiko's most creative design period. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKS-0003