The Japanese brand Seiko has been producing high-precision watches for over a century. Over the decades, its models have evolved both technically and aesthetically. Dating a Seiko watch can give you an idea of the period in which it was made, and a better understanding of its place in the brand's watchmaking history.
How can I find out the year of a Seiko watch?
The easiest way to quickly determine the year of manufacture of a Seiko watch is to refer to the 7-digit serial number engraved on the case. The first 2 digits represent the decade, the next 2 digits represent the year of that decade and the last 3 digits represent the number of the series.
The digits of the serial number can be used to precisely date most Seiko models. Visit the first digit of the serial number indicates the year of manufacture in a given decadewhile the second digit represents the month of manufacture. For example, a serial number beginning with "85" could designate a watch manufactured in May 1988 or 1998, depending on the context. Similarly, a serial number beginning with "52" could designate a watch made in February 1975 or 1985.
For determine the exact decadeIt is important to know the production period of the watch's specific movement. In general, movements are not manufactured for more than ten years without significant revisions, which can help reduce options.
This code makes it possible to accurately date the vast majority of Seiko models using the serial number and production context of the movement.
For example, a Seiko Arabic Dial Green with a serial number starting with "2" and using the 4R36 movement can be precisely dated. The 4R36 is a modern movement that was not produced until the 2010s. Therefore, if the serial number starts with "2", this indicates that the watch was manufactured in 2022.
For watches vintage prior to 1969, the year cannot be determined from the serial number. Other details, such as the logo, case design or hands, should be observed to determine the year of manufacture. Archival brand documents can also be helpful.
You can use an online calculator for further details by click here.
Deciphering the information on the case backs of Seiko watches
Housing material
Seiko watches use a variety of materials for their cases, often indicated on the case back. The most common material is stainless steel, but other materials can also be used, such as ACRP, SGP and CAP GOLD. These materials are specified by codes engraved on the case.
Case reference number
The reference number consists of two parts: the SIZE CODE (movement) and the housing design code. For example, "5740-8000" and "6105-8000" indicate specific movements and housings. The reference number helps to identify the exact model and its regional or revision variants.
Waterproofing
The markings on water resistance have evolved over time. Before 1970, Seiko watches were marked "Water Proof. Following legislative changes, this marking was replaced by "Water Resistant or "Water Resist. Some waterproof models also include opening instructions on the case back, especially for monobloc cases.
Production company logo
The production company logolocated under the Seiko logo, indicates the factory where the watch was manufactured. The main logos are "lightning bolt for Daini and "typhoon for Suwa. These logos also appear on the WATCH DIAL.
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