First Seiko Chronograph Ref. 5719-8990 Monopusher “Olympic 1964”

Here is a remarkable and exceptionally rare Seiko mono-pusher chronograph dating back to 1964, featuring an all-original design. The silver sunburst dial remains in its authentic state, adorned with black lettering and faceted steel block hour markers housing lume squares at their inner ends. A distinctive marker graces the 12 o’clock position.

The chronograph function is controlled by a single pusher located at 2 o’clock. The initial push sets the chronograph’s second hand in motion, the second push stops the hand, and the third push resets it. Notably, the watch lacks a traditional running seconds hand, but the chronograph seconds hand can serve that purpose if desired. The faceted dauphine hands, retaining their original lume, are in excellent condition.

The bidirectionally rotatable bakelite bezel exhibits minimal wear with slight signs of use, particularly around 3 o’clock. The sizable stainless steel case, featuring faceted lugs, retains its original crown and pusher and is in very good condition, with a few marks primarily at the lugs. The stainless steel case back is also in excellent condition, adorned with the Seiko seahorse at its center and showing only slight overall wear.

This timepiece comes with an aftermarket leather strap and buckle of commendable quality. Housed within is Seiko’s high-grade 5719A movement, demonstrating robust and accurate performance with a deviation of approximately +-10 seconds per day. Fully serviced in August 2023, the watch includes a 12-month warranty on its proper mechanical functioning.

The Seiko Chronograph made its debut in 1964 during the Tokyo Olympics, serving as a showcase of the Japanese watch industry’s technological prowess. It stands as a captivating piece of watch history, making it a valuable addition to any vintage collection.