Beyond the often sports and racing oriented chronographs within the 6139 lineup, Seiko also offered a few fringe references with avant garde styling and bold color ways that, when available, are must haves for any enthusiast. They can be tough to source, as most were Speed Timer variants that were almost exclusively available to the Japanese market. This particular example from November of ‘76 was originally sourced through the import firm, Japan Time Corp. Like Daltron Inc. (New York), they were a stateside back-channel partner to Seiko that made it possible to purchase JDM only releases right here in the US. After an acquisition, JTC would stamp the case back and rotor of each watch with their own company insignia before moving them along to a destination retailer. It’s fairly easy to understand why this one was a candidate for special order import…

The case is an orderly mix of both sweeping curves and crisp, cutting angles. The lugs are substantial and cleverly detailed, and crisp lines transition seamlessly into the round mid case through shared surfaces on the top and sides. A thin beveled bezel pulls it all together nicely, and frames an unforgettable combination of dial and hands. The dial is a gradient ocean blue-green with a rich sunburst finish beneath a lacquered surface. It appears that the hour hand was set too deeply at some point, and caused a light drag line in the lacquer that presents as a circle near the center. It’s very light and doesn’t break the surface of the paint, but we’ve taken this blemish into account for pricing. It’s set with polished applied markers that bevel toward center and are finished with white inlay striping. A cushion shaped sub register in a satin grained silver totals the minutes, and a brick orange sweep tracks the seconds. The hour and minute hands are broad syringes with mixed textures and finishes. It’s unpolished and completely original, and has been fitted with a NOS Seiko “hardlex” crystal. We’ve paired it with a coffee chestnut leather with white stitching that contrasts beautifully against the dial, and provides a comfortable fit and finish. It’s keeping near perfect time post service, and the chronograph functions are smooth and responsive. A bold JDM stunner, it’s sure to be a fast favorite in any rotation.

Kvarnsjo Leather Smooth Chestnut with White Stitch

Serviced 1/18/22

Diameter- 39mm

Lugs- 19mm