Seiko - Open-face Precision sub-seconds Seikosha - 1950-1959

Introduction

A vintage Seiko Precision open-face pocket watch featuring a silvered dial with bold Arabic numerals, blued-steel hands, and a subsidiary seconds register at the 6 o'clock position. The dial is signed 'SEIKO PRECISION' and the movement is hand-wound. The piece is accompanied by a link chain and an attached coin fob identified as a Republic of China (Taiwan) 1-Yuan (壹圓) coin issued by the Bank of Taiwan (臺灣銀行), dated Year 44 of the Republic of China (民國四十四年, i.e. 1955).

Historical / Era context

The movement is signed 'SEIKOSHA' on the mainplate and 'SEIKO PRECISION' on the ratchet wheel — hallmarks of Seikosha Co., Ltd., the manufacturing arm of the Seiko group that produced some of Japan's most respected mechanical pocket watch movements throughout the mid-twentieth century. The 'Precision' designation was Seiko's top-grade designation for their pocket watch line, indicating a higher level of finishing and regulation, though the term alone does not indicate railway issue. No railway inspection stamp (国鉄/J.N.R.) is present on the caseback of this example. The plain, heavily polished chrome-finish case shows substantial age-related patina consistent with decades of regular carry.

Condition

The watch is running at the time of listing.

Case: The case shows significant wear commensurate with age: the exterior is covered in dense surface scratches and scuffs throughout, with areas of tarnish and discolouration particularly on the back. The inside of the caseback lid bears hand-scratched engravings (appears to show a figure or text, partly illegible). No visible dents or structural damage. No material hallmark stamp is visible on the case.

Dial: The dial retains good overall legibility; all Arabic numerals and the 'SEIKO PRECISION' text are clearly readable. There is overall age-related patination and some light spotting/staining across the dial surface, consistent with storage over many decades. The subsidiary seconds dial at the lower centre is intact and legible.

Crystal: The domed mineral/glass crystal is present and intact. There are light surface scratches visible under raking light, but it remains acceptably clear for viewing the dial.

Movement: The watch is reported running well (稼働良好). The manual-winding Seikosha movement is visible through the open caseback and appears clean and well-preserved. The balance wheel, escapement, and keyless works are visible and in good order from observation. No accuracy issues are reported.

Accessories: Accompanied by a period link chain (heavy rectangular-link style, showing age-related tarnish and patina) and an attached Republic of China (Taiwan) 壹圓 (1-Yuan) coin fob with a floral bail fitting. No original box or papers.

Please review all photographs carefully for the detailed condition.

Specifications

Brand: Seiko
Model: SEIKO PRECISION
Movement: Manual winding mechanical movement
Case material: Chromed
Case diameter: approx. 49.5 mm
Total length including crown and bow: approx. 65.5 mm
Total length including bow/ring: approx. 60 mm
Dial color: Silver
Period: 1950-1959
Weight: approx. 101 g
Accessories: Watch, Link chain, Republic of China (Taiwan) 壹圓 coin fob
In working order: Yes

Closing note

This is an appealing example of a vintage Seikosha-signed Seiko Precision open-face pocket watch with a charming period coin fob, representing a slice of mid-twentieth century Japanese horology in honest, well-worn condition. Collectors are encouraged to examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the item description.
As with all vintage timepieces, please examine the provided photographs carefully to satisfy yourself with the condition before bidding. The watch is sold as a vintage collectible; long-term accuracy, water resistance and future maintenance are not guaranteed.
The item is carefully packed and shipped from Japan with tracking.
Import duties, taxes and customs charges are the buyer's responsibility.

Ref. A637