If it came down to owning just one watch, there’s no question that Seiko’s 6309-7040/49 is a strong contender. Still their top selling diver to date, it’s a tool watch so perfectly executed, it remains firmly at the top of our list. Balance, contrast, and contouring all neatly assembled into a finished product that is much greater than the sum of its parts. A bare bones beauty that more than proves that less is in fact, more. If you still need convincing, this example from March of 1977 is up to the challenge. In near NOS condition, it is easily the nicest example we’ve ever offered. The case and its finishes are factory crisp, with only a couple of light visible scuffs. The bezel and insert are perfect and without any signs of wear. It rotates in either direction with a firm and satisfying click. The original “hardlex” crystal covers an immaculate matte black dial. It carries the Suwa “S” logo above the six o’clock marker. This signifies its earlier production, and that it was built and cased completely in Japan. The markers and printing are perfect. The stippled hour markers have developed a warm, even patina, and the water/resist lettering has retained its brick red hue. The hands still sport their original polished finish, and are free of corrosion or discoloration in the lume. The crown screws down tightly with ample threading, and the case back is free of tool marks or abrasion. In fact, the original blue case back protector is still almost completely intact. Dry and brittle, the original strap was not salvageable, so we’ve fitted it with the next best option; Uncle Seiko’s GL831 “straight vent” reproduction. Supple and comfortable, it provides the closest finish available to the real thing. The 6309A is keeping near perfect time post service, and ready for many more years of solid reliability. Though we’ll agree that aging and wear only add to the appeal of the “Turtle,” owning one in this condition is an extremely rare treat not likely to be repeated. 

Uncle Seiko GL831 Straight Vent Reproduction with Stainless Steel Hardware (uncleseiko.com)

Serviced 7/9/19

Diameter- 44mm

Lugs- 22mm