I’ll dispense with a lengthy overview and history of this one. If your itchy trigger finger has “clicked” this far, I’m going to assume the dust covered spot in your 6139 collection is about to be filled. Other than the crystal and bracelet, this unreal example from September of 1969 is absolutely original. The case is unpolished, and the factory finishes are still quite crisp. The corners are razor sharp, and the case is the correct “notched” (over the crown) construction. The dial is spectacular. The matte navy blue finish is blemish free, and the silver printing is complete. The luminous material on the hour markers is the original, and with only some light scattered color. The markers show little to no oxidation or corrosion, and have retained their bright mirror finish. The hour and minute hands are the latter polished style with a clean finish and their original luminous windows intact. The chronograph sweep is the correct “two-piece” design with the studded collet. The “Speed Timer” orange sweep and tear drop minute totaler are free of chipping or paint loss, and both reset to dead zero. The inner bezel is the correct early style with the scalloped edge (not visible without removal) and its original luminous “zero” is intact. Its deep, flat black color shows no visible fading from UV exposure, and the silver printing is perfect aside from a single blemish on the “9” hash. The dimpled crown, stem, spring, and gear are original, and the inner bezel rotates smoothly in either direction. The time setting, and day/date quickset (English/Kanji) operate smoothly. The case back (proof) is free from any tool marring, and screws down tightly to protect the movement. Driving the hands is the correct 21 jewel, JDM variant of the 6139A, and has the correct red inlay on the balance bridge and autowind framework. Post service, it’s keeping time to within just a few seconds per day, and all functions are operating as they should. It arrived with no bracelet, so we fitted it with a genuine Seiko non-tapered “H” link for an appropriate fit and finish. This Speed Timer is among the best we’ve seen, and an HCV first in this color way. Arguably the world’s first automatic chronograph, and Seiko’s undisputed original, it’s a must have for any enthusiast, and sure to be the highlight of any vintage Seiko collection.

Genuine Seiko Non-Tapered “H” Link Bracelet (Export)

Serviced- 1/26

Diameter- 41mm

Lugs- 19mm