At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and designs so far removed from tradition that they were hardly recognizable as wrist watches, Seiko took a step backwards in order to bring watch design forward. Introduced in 1983, the 7A28 was the worlds first analog quartz chronograph, and to say they got it right is an understatement. Solid construction, “fly by wire” circuitry, and a hefty 15 jewels make for a finely tuned machine that can be adjusted to dial in performance, and allows for the replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today. A year later, in ’84, the 7A38 was introduced. Just like its predecessor, the design allowed for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and a tenth of a second totaler. The center seconds is stationary unless the chronograph is engaged, at which point it measures elapsed seconds for the chronograph. In addition, there was now a day and date window nestled neatly into the 1/10 second sub register. Either can be set independently via the crown in the second position. Along with this new feature, a whole host of new designs was now available to suit any taste. If you are unfamiliar with this movement, we can all but bet that a little research will have you ready to track down your own. In the last couple of years, collectibility for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. This example from May of ‘88 is a classic dress model with mouthwatering details, and a build quality that’s second to none. The dial is certainly the focal point, and for good reason. A “sandwich” style, it consists of two separate layers stacked together to create depth and an appealing topography. The lower dial is brass, and home to the sub registers. Each is painted in matte white and framed by a glittering satin gold border. The upper dial is a glossy white enamel with applied gold studs at the hours. Large Roman numerals have been painted on its surface, along with a classic “railroad” minute track. The slim, contoured hour and minute hands are also painted, and set below a polished gold seconds totaler. At the edge of the dial, the tachymetric chapter rises steeply to create even greater depth, and a seamless transition into the rounded bezel. The case is a flat tonneau with a slim profile that’s ideal for comfort, and features an integrated bracelet design that tapers smoothly from the corners downward. More than 30 years of wear has caused some light plating loss on the bezel corner, as well as a few of the mid-links of the bracelet, but overall, it is a stunning piece of Seiko chronograph history thats ready for many more years of service. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement crystal, and post service, the 7A38 is keeping perfect time. The chronograph functions operate smoothly, and a fresh battery has been installed. A truly great dress watch with an historic movement, it’s sure to be a conversation starter in any collection. 

Original Seiko Integrated Two-Tone Five Link Bracelet

Serviced- 12/25

Diameter- 37.5mm

Lugs- N/A