For vintage Seiko lovers, perhaps no series is as instantly recognizable as the 6139-600X models that have become synonymous with the introduction of this historic movement. For collectors, they serve as the embodiment of Seiko’s efforts to deliver, with style, their first automatic chronograph. Today, these models are often referred to as, and fall under the umbrella of the “Pogue” models due to their association to Col. William Pogue and his now historic yellow dialed variant. Available in three colorways (Yellow, Silver, and Blue), it goes without saying that no matter your preference, they are all memorable in their own right and the right example would be a highlight in any collection. From January of 1971, this example is amazing overall, and with a touch of the mysterious. Even for avid collectors, reciting the 6007 reference aloud often has the intonation of a question, and for good reason. Most of what is known has been deduced by enthusiasts’ observations via polling on forums and scouring through online images. Even reaching out to the Seiko museum was met with not much more than a shoulder shrug. What I can say for sure is that production was very short from about November of 1970 to January of 71, and described blue 6009T “Resist” dials only. Because that was a transitional period, early 6007s had a notched case and the latter did not. Most house the “A” variant of the 6139, but not the two piece sweep. The only bracelet was the non-tapered “H” link. Typically the last digit of a Seiko reference denotes the market in which is was to be sold, and it’s thought that the 7 was for the North American market, but  specifically a Latin American locale as the day disks have invariably been English and Spanish. That pretty much sums it up, and as this is the first 6007 to cross my bench in more than 10 years, I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if it were also the last. The rich, velvet navy dial is virtually flawless, and the original luminous on the hour markers is clean with just a hint of cream patina. The inner bezel has faded to a ghost silver, but the markings are still clear and legible and it rotates smoothly in either direction via the crown. The polished hour and minute batons are free of oxidation or corrosion, and the luminous material within has no discoloration or degradation. The chronograph hands are bright red with no chipping or paint loss. The outer bezel in crisp, metallic red and blue bears shows some moderate wear, and typical color fade. The case remains unpolished with the original factory finishes still visible. The chronograph functions are snappy and responsive, and post service, the 6139B is keeping near perfect time. It comes attached to the original non-tapered “H” link bracelet, though one of the end links has been replaced. Whether it’s the missing piece to your 6139 line up, or your first vintage Seiko, it will certainly have been worth the wait.

Original Seiko Non-Tapered “H” Link Bracelet

Serviced- 10/25

Diameter- 41mm

Lugs- 19mm