Seiko's mid-century line up is something to be admired, and whenever possible, strapped to the wrist. The Sportsmatic line was developed as a versatile array of timepieces built to withstand the rigors of the day-to-day, and look great doing it. The  "5" concept came into being in 1963, and with it, accessible and robust automatics that still capture a wide audience today. This immaculate example from January of 1967 bears all the hallmarks of the Seiko 5 approach: An automatic movement, a single window displaying both day and date, the crown is recessed and sits at the four o'clock position, a water resistant case design, and of course, a price that's arguably far better than reasonable. It features a sunburst charcoal gray dial with a glossy lacquer finish and polished applied hour markers. the hour and minute hands are polished and beveled dauphines, and a long slim sweep tracks the seconds. A framed day/date window resides at three, and the date can be quickset by pressing the crown. the day is non-quick set. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, is keeping near perfect time. It comes attached to the original mixed five link bracelet for a complete fit and finish that’s comfortable on the wrist. If you’re in the market for mid-century minimalism partnered with robust build quality, this one will be hard to beat.

Serviced- 10/26

Diameter- 36.5mm

Lugs- 19mm