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FS 1968 Grand Seiko 6146-8000 Hi Beat 36000

  1. jaegodylan Mar 1, 2022

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    _MG_5472.jpg

    Up for sale is a very nice Grand Seiko that dates to 1968. It was "overhauled" or serviced in Japan in 2021.

    The watch runs great and it is a very clean example of the classic Seiko Grammar of Design. The case is exceptional and retains its sharp lines and factory polish. The caseback is clean and shows its original gold medallion.

    There is some spotting to dial which hardly noticeable on the wrist.

    The 6146A movement runs as it should and looks very clean.

    About the watch

    "First released in December 1967, Grand Seiko released just 36.000 watches of its 61GS caliber in 12 years, ending it all in 1972. Grand Seiko wanted to have its own unique style that would resonate with the high-end market in Japan, large production numbers apparently did not meet their standards or marketing. It definitely was a Japan only watch, which explains a quirky feature, namely the blank spot between the day change from one to the next - for this is a single language caliber...

    When the original Grand Seiko watch was created in 1960 quality mechanics was the aim. Design esthetics only really kicked in around 1967 when the 44GS was released with the iconic “Grand Seiko Style” by designer Taro Tanaka. Most future Seiko products were to be influenced by this.

    The Vintage Grand Seiko range is also highly respected for the traditional way in which they were made - every watch polished by hand according to the “Zaratsu” way, a traditional polishing to a finish with no distortion and in two dimensions only. The Suwa division produced most of the Grand Seiko watches, except for the 44GS, 45GS, and 45GS VFA movements, which were created by the Daini division. The two companies competed with each other and if If either one experienced problems in production, the other would simply increase.

    The 61GS movement was adjusted to be within -3/+5 sec/day out of the factory and a six digit chronometer number was engraved signifying this watch has been certified as such. Early 614X-8000 models, gold cap too, had Grand Seiko written on the dial with 8000TAD at the 6 o'clock. Later models sported automatic under Seiko and just had GS and Hi Beat 36000, with 8010TAD at the six. The rotor was marked Seiko.

    Eight models however had the same 6145-8000 used. But there are differences of course"

    Asking £600 or open to offers.

    Watch is based in London but can ship worldwide as watch parts for repair to assist with taxes.

    Detail shots

    IMG_3145.jpg IMG_3146.jpg IMG_3147.jpg IMG_3148.jpg IMG_3151.jpg IMG_3152.jpg IMG_3153.jpg IMG_3154.jpg IMG_3155.jpg IMG_3156.jpg IMG_3157.jpg
     
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    Edited Mar 2, 2022
    Risto likes this.