For sale is an original 1969 Seiko Speed-Timer 6139-6000 from the first year of production for the world’s first automatic chronograph. This watch has all the “first year” features: “Proof” dial, JDM-only “Speed-Timer” and “5 Sports Water 70 Proof” text, notch case, Pepsi bezel and “Waterproof” caseback, and functioning “dimple” crown. Inner bezel is original and rotates correctly. This watch also features the rarest movement found in the 6139 series, the 6139A with 21 jewels. The 6139A was only found in the first year of production, and the 21j version was only found in JDM watches (all others contained the 17j version). Date appears in both English and Japanese. Pushers appear to be correct and original, operating smoothly. Serial number clearly visible on the caseback dates the watch to June of 1969. Dial is in pristine condition with zero algae on the plots (a common 6139 issue); case appears to be either un-polished or minimally polished with sharp facets - scratches visible on the caseback from opening. Original dimple crown functions correctly – these aren’t easy to fix or find. The bracelet as seen in the photos is from a Seiko quartz watch - I will include a tapered-H link bracelet as commonly seen on Pogues in the sale (pictures in a post below) - along with aftermarket end-links purchased from Uncle Seiko which can be seen in these pictures. If a buyer wants the quartz bracelet here, happy to include that as well. Replacement crystal just installed – original crystal (which is scratched but likely polishable) will also be included. A 6139-6002 with yellow dial was taken into space by astronaut Col. William Pogue during NASA’s Skylab 4 mission in 1973 and is the first automatic chronograph ever worn in space. Overall, this is an honest, original example of the rarest 6139 produced featuring a host of first year and JDM only details. I’m selling to fund an incoming and this is one of the watches that I’m a bit heart-broken to let go.... but such is life. Price: $850 USD OBO, including shipping in Canada or CONUS – shipping available elsewhere at actual cost. Payment by bank wire or PayPal with references.
Lovely watch, GLWS. I can't recommend the Pogue enough - it's a great size, a great shape and this is a really good specimen.
I’ve had some feedback from more knowledgeable members than I on the bracelet, and it has been confirmed as being from a Seiko quartz watch. As such, I’ve knocked off $100 from my price and I will include this tapered-H link bracelet from another Pogue that I own instead: Apologies for the early bump, however I wanted to ensure that this issue was clearly dealt with.