THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: SEIKO
MODEL: 6306-7001
YEAR: 1979
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 42.5mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: RUBBER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

For many watch enthusiasts, the watch-collecting journey starts with a Seiko - they do not forget the first time they put on an SKX007. However, Seiko divers are not simple "beginner watches" - the brand made some of the most robust, innovative, and wearable designs in the 60s and 70s. 

The present example, the Seiko Turtle ref. 6306-7001, dates back 1979 - replacing the 6105-8000 which was a huge success. Similar to its predecessor, the watch features a stainless steel "cushion" case, boosting 150m of water resistance and wears supremely well even on small wrists. The updated movement now features a day function - displayed by the Kanji date wheel as these were released only to the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). The crown at 4 o'clock position completes the iconic Seiko diver look.

The 6306-7001 isn't particularly rare, but finding one in good condition is not easy - many of them have dirty dials or water ingress. This watch came to us in great shape, with a full case and a very attractive dial. The movement runs healthily at +4 s/d, 275 amps, with a 0.3 beat error. These vintage Seiko divers are truly incredible watches and can still be had for very reasonable prices.