Vintage King Seiko Wristwatch 5626-7000 Hi-beat 1969 Serviced

SPECIFICATION

Reference: King Seiko 5626-7000
Movement: 5626 Hi-beat
Age: September 1969
Case Size: 36mm
Case Thickness: 10mm
Lug to Lug: 42mm
Lugs: 18mm
Condition: used Seiko watch
Box & Papers: No
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Warranty: 12-Months Warranty

 POINTS TO MENTION

• In great pre-owned condition, with light wear 
  
• Case and bezel have some light scratches and marks
• Sunburst dial 
• Fully serviced Hi-beat movement
  
• Upgraded metal quickset gear
  
• English and Kanji day wheel
• KS signed crown
  
• Hands have some light paint loss
• Gold medallion is in great condition
• Paired with an unworn black epsom leather strap
  

Seiko has recently rekindled the Kings Seiko range, showing the acclaim that this timeless watch is held and can be owned at a fraction of the cost of the new models, which really does mean you can pick up something so cool.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

Introducing the exceptional Vintage King Seiko, a true masterpiece from the 1970s that showcases Seiko's dedication to precision, craftsmanship, and design. As a top-tier product and internal competitor to the Grand Seiko, the King Seiko was created to challenge the Swiss watch industry and establish Seiko's presence in the international market. With ultra-accurate Chronometer-rated movements that propelled Seiko to victory in the Swiss Chronometer Competition, a mirror-finished case featuring a unique design, and the expert craftsmanship that ensures a durable, timeless classic, the King Seiko epitomizes the very best in Japanese vintage dress watches.

The King Seiko line was conceived and developed originally by the Daini Seikosha division as a luxury hand-wind watch to compete with the Suwa-developed Grand Seiko line. Any aspiration on the part of Daini Seikosha that it should be regarded as the equal of Grand Seiko was never realised, with Grand Seiko consistently presented in all of Seiko’s catalogues and marketing as the zenith of the Seiko Universe from 1960 until its demise in 1975. For the first seven years of its existence, the King Seiko evolved slowly but steadily through a series of beautiful hand-wind models, all of which powered by variations of the 44-series movement, itself a refined development of the Cronos 54A movement, dating from the late 1950s.  In 1968, Daini replaced the 44 family with the thoroughly modern high-beat hand-wind 45 calibre, undoubtedly one of Seiko’s finest hours. That movement would go on to serve both King Seiko and Grand Seiko watches until 1973.

THE WATCH

This reference 5626-7000 King Seiko houses a Hi-Beat movement running at 28,800 bph, a testament to Seiko's mastery of watchmaking technology. Drawing from the knowledge and expertise gained while developing Chronometer-rated movements for observatory competitions, Seiko crafted a durable and precise timepiece that stands the test of time.

The 5626-7000 features a monocoque case design, with the movement accessed via the dial aperture in the case rather than the more conventional approach via a removable screw-down case back. These unibody cases feature a removable hatch between the lower lugs to allow external fine regulation adjustment. However, in 1973, the design was updated, with the unibody case changed to a conventional screw-down case back design and the external fine adjustment feature was lost.

OUR THOUGHTS

This King Seiko is a vintage masterpiece with unmistakable modern flair. On the wrist, it feels sharp, refined, and effortlessly contemporary, making it the perfect companion in any setting. Beating inside is the renowned 56 Hi-Beat automatic movement, upgraded with a robust metal quickset and freshly serviced for flawless performance. Stylish, reliable, and brimming with character, this is a watch to enjoy, show off, and treasure for years to come.