Hi all First, please forgive me if this is inappropriate to create an entirely new thread and I will redirect accordingly. Found this watch while trawling through a drawer at my Grandmothers. The watch belonged to my grandfather who (I believe) may have purchased this during the Vietnam war. I gave it a shake and the watch seems to be functioning - albeit, the stem is broken and so the crown pops clean off. The crystal is also shot, but underneath the dial looks very clean. Any information would be greatly appreciated!
The caseback tells you what model it is. In this case, a 6117-6400, the serial number dates the watch to March 1970. The 6117 relates to the caliber used in the watch, the 6400 just a series number. The watch is called a "World Time" and has a 24 hour "GMT" hand, although I can't remember if it's independent or if it's slaved to the hour wheel. Thinking about it, most probably just slaved to the hour wheel, so not a true GMT. Except for the chip on the crystal, it looks to be in very good condition. PS: When the crown/stem is working properly, rotating the crown in the closed position will rotate the inner bezel. If things are not all correct it's best not to play with it until it's serviced. Also forgot to say DIBS in the unlikely event that you ever decide to sell it.
And it is entirely appropriate to start a new thread as you did. A service and a new crystal and it’ll be a great watch. If you don’t know anyone who can service it and you post where you are, someone will be able to recommend a repairer/servicer.
Thank you all for the replies - will definitely take on your advice @Spruce. @JimInOz - looks sensational. I noticed that you too are a fellow Melburnian. Are you able to recommend a servicer/ repairer?
Good genuine ones of these are increasing in value these days, especially as there are now quite a few places you can buy copies of dials, chapter rings, crowns etc. They are straight forward to service and they can be improved upon in the same way as the 6105 movement, which they are very similar to except for the obvious addition of the extra parts for the GMT
Great heirloom in very nice condition and will be an excellent watch to wear. In case you didn’t catch it, it seems that @JimInOz was making a veiled offer to service your watch with his previous post so you might want to contact him by pm if you are interested. Seems like a great idea to me.
Gosh darn “found draw” I had so many deals set up as I really liked that model but the seller couldn’t wait a day for me. In your case sounds like a family thing which can be a plus. They look really nice and if you are into Seikos they are a nice addition to the collection. Enjoy it they wear well and look nice.
Lovely find as the vintage seiko market has become a minefield these days. I also believe the black dialed version is rarer than the white ( I will let the experts on this forum confirm that). Wear it in good health!
I nominate @JimInOz to craft a long & exceedingly detailed post to https://omegaforums.net/forums/watchmaking.52/ chronicling the restoration of this nice Seiko 6400...