At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and layouts 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. 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. The design allows for three sub registers: one measuring minutes, another is the designated seconds, and lastly a tenth of a second totaler. The center seconds is stationary unless the chronograph is engaged, at which point it measures elapsed seconds. 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 few years, collectibility for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and especially so for hard to find variants like this titanium PVD “Sports 100” from September of 1984. It was available in two color ways, a titanium gray with a black dial and white trim, and this PVD titanium with with gold. Unlike stainless steel alloys, titanium is a pure “specialty” metal. It’s incredibly resistant to corrosion, and exhibits triple the strength and durability of most steel alloys at only 40% of the weight. The black PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) protective coating adds a flat black finish to the entire exterior of the case and bracelet. Somewhat notorious for wear through, the PVD finish here is absolutely perfect. In fact, the case virtually new old stock, with the translucent blue oval sticker still in place on the case back. The dial is a spotless matte black with matte gold hands and markers, and bright white luminous plots. A steeply angled tachymetric chapter adds great depth, even in contrast to the low profile of the integrated bezel. Hooded lugs and flared case edges make for a familiar, though still unique architecture. It’s unpolished and completely original including the “hardlex” mineral crystal, and post service with a fresh battery, it’s keeping perfect time and all chronograph functions are operating correctly. The original bracelet was not present on arrival, but it’s paired with a NOS Pulsar PVD Three Link that’s a seamless addition, and without the design vulnerabilities of the original clasp.  Difficult to source in any condition, this one is just phenomenal and sure to be a highlight in any collection.

NOS Vintage Pulsar Three Link PVD Bracelet

Serviced- 11/25

Diameter- 39mm

Lugs- 19mm