Presented for auction by Second Vintage A beautifully preserved example of Japanese horological excellence, this King Seiko embodies the legendary design principles established by Taro Tanaka. Representing the pinnacle of Seiko's mid-century mechanical achievements, the Hi-Beat 5600 series offers collectors a highly refined, precision-focused timepiece. This specific reference showcases the sharp, angular case geometry and meticulously finished dial that made King Seiko a formidable rival to the finest Swiss watchmakers of its era, delivering an enduring aesthetic that remains highly relevant today. Brand: Seiko Model: King Seiko Reference Number: 5626-7111 Serial Number: 2N0885 Movement: Automatic caliber 5626A, 25 jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, well-preserved with sharp case lines and a pristine dial Dial and Hands The silver dial features a striking sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully, remaining in exceptionally clean condition with no visible spotting, stains, or moisture damage. Applied faceted baton indices are meticulously finished with black central inserts, matching the sharp dauphine hands perfectly. The dial furniture includes an applied, faceted Seiko logo at twelve o'clock and the iconic applied King Seiko medallion above six o'clock, complemented by crisp black printing for the Automatic and Hi-Beat designations. A framed day and date aperture sits cleanly at three o'clock, presenting sharp typography with a striking red Sunday indicator. The entire dial surface is remarkably well-preserved, showcasing the high-quality manufacturing standards of the era. Case and Crystal The 36 millimeter stainless steel case retains its classic architectural lines, displaying sharp lug profiles, distinct factory chamfers, and clear transitions between the brushed upper surfaces and polished flanks. Honest signs of wear, including light superficial hairline scratches and handling marks, are present, but the case remains visually striking and highly defined. The watch is fitted with a flat crystal that provides a clear, distortion-free view of the dial, showing minimal signs of wear. The original King Seiko-signed crown sits flush against the case, presenting crisp relief lettering. The solid screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the reference and serial numbers, further confirming the structural integrity of the piece. Movement Inside beats the Seiko caliber 5626A automatic movement, a 25-jewel Hi-Beat mechanism renowned for its engineering and reliability. The movement displays authentic signs of age, with some visible oxidation on the rotor surface, while the caliber markings, Japan designation, and jewel counts remain clearly stamped on the bridges. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of +32 to +34 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a handsome black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern and contrasting white edge stitching. It is secured by a standard stainless steel pin buckle, offering a comfortable fit and a period-appropriate aesthetic that complements the sharp lines of the case. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The dial is outstandingly preserved, presenting a fresh and vibrant appearance free of significant degradation or age spots. The stainless steel case shows normal vintage wear and light handling marks, maintaining its sharp original geometry and distinct polished surfaces. The crystal is clear, and the movement is fully operational. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks This King Seiko 5626-7111 is a superb representative of Seiko's golden era of mechanical watchmaking, offering a highly wearable case size and a timeless, versatile aesthetic. The combination of a pristine sunburst dial, sharp case lines, and a high-beat automatic movement makes this a compelling addition to any serious vintage collection. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vintage Japanese horology. History The King Seiko line was introduced in the 1960s as an internal rival to Grand Seiko, driving both divisions to achieve unprecedented levels of accuracy, design, and finishing. The 56KS series, launched in the late 1960s and produced into the 1970s, represented the maturation of this friendly rivalry, featuring automated production techniques combined with high-beat precision. These timepieces are celebrated today for introducing Taro Tanaka's "Grammar of Design" rules, which dictated flat surfaces, sharp angles, and highly reflective polishing, creating a distinctive and enduring Japanese design language that permanently elevated the brand's global standing. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent). Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age. Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description. If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SKA-0006