Seiko 6138-8039 “John Player Special” – Automatic Chronograph – Vintage 1970s Offered for auction is a highly collectible Seiko 6138-8039 “John Player Special” automatic chronograph, one of the most recognizable vintage Seiko chronographs from the 1970s. The model is appreciated by collectors for its striking black and gold design reminiscent of the famous John Player Special Formula 1 racing livery. Brand: Seiko Reference: 6138-8039 Period: 1970s Movement: Seiko Calibre 6138 – automatic chronograph Movement details (Cal. 6138): In-house Seiko automatic chronograph movement Column-wheel chronograph mechanism Vertical clutch system Automatic winding with central rotor 21 jewels Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour Day-Date complication (bilingual depending on version) Chronograph with 30-minute counter and 12-hour totalizer The Seiko 6138 calibre is historically significant, being part of the first generation of automatic chronographs introduced in 1969 and developed entirely in-house by Seiko. Dial: Black dial with gold-tone details and chronograph registers, giving the watch the characteristic “John Player Special” appearance highly sought after by collectors. Case: Stainless steel chronograph case with pushers and crown. Case diameter: approx. … mm (excluding crown) Crystal: Hardlex Bracelet/Strap: … (original / replacement) Condition: Vintage condition with signs of use consistent with age. Please carefully examine the photographs as they form an integral part of the description. Collector’s note: The Seiko 6138 series represents an important chapter in the history of automatic chronographs. The reference 6138-8039 “John Player Special” is among the most distinctive and desirable variants due to its iconic motorsport-inspired aesthetic. Shipping: Carefully packaged and shipped with tracking and insurance. A great opportunity to acquire a classic Seiko automatic chronograph from the golden era of mechanical watchmaking.