Evolved from the 6106-8100, the 6119-8460 delivered the clean lines and minimalist approach that has become synonymous with early Seiko “tool” watches. Bearing a strong resemblance to its predecessor, Seiko stayed true to the style while managing to add a few details that set this variant apart, and provide a cleaner fit and finish. The dial now carried an applied “5” badge and much larger applied hour markers that framed large luminous plots. The hour and minute hands were carried over, but the second hand now had a rectangular frame near the end that allowed for luminous seconds. The “count up”  bezel insert was now marked in 5 minute intervals which balanced it perfectly against the dial, and the beveled lugs gave a bit more body to the mid case. For fans of the historic Apollo missions, this watch is a chart topper as it was worn by NASA Chief Flight Director, Gene Kranz. Kranz directed the first lunar landing of the Apollo 11 crew, and is credited with saving the lives of the entire Apollo 13 crew after the explosion of a service module critically disabled their Saturn V rocket. During both events he can be seen in the constant company of two items; his trademark white vest, and his silver dialed Seiko 6119-8460. This example from November of ‘71 is fantastic. The dial is a semi-gloss black free of fading or blemishes. The hands and markers show some visible oxidation, but have mostly retained their original polished finish. The luminous material bears a light patina, and is evenly colored throughout. The bezel rotates smoothly in either direction, but the insert has mostly gone “ghost.” It has moderate wear and the pip is the original. The case is unpolished and the factory finishes are a bit worn, but still visible. It’s completely original aside from a replacement crystal and post service is keeping near perfect time. We’ve paired it with a black paratrooper with a white stripe that partners perfectly with the dial, and allows for a custom fit to any wrist. A perfect tool watch with ties to avionics history, this “Gene Kranz” is sure to be a favorite for any collector.

Serviced 12/29/19

Diameter- 38mm

Lugs- 19mm