Vintage King Seiko Hi-Beat Automatic - Ref. 5625-7010 - Black Dial (1969) An exquisite and historically significant vintage King Seiko from the golden era of Japanese watchmaking. This model is a prime example of the brand's "Grammar of Design" philosophy, featuring sharp lines, a bold black dial, and the high-performance Calibre 5625 Hi-Beat movement. Heritage & Details Brand: King Seiko Model/Reference: 5625-7010 Manufacturing Year: 1969 (Based on serial number 920***) Movement: Automatic (Self-winding) Calibre: CAL5625A Seiko automatic high-beat (25 Jewels) Beat Rate: 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph), earning the 'Hi-Beat' designation for its smooth second hand sweep. Features: Date complication, Second Hand Hacking device (allows for precise time setting). Dial: Striking Black dial, signed 'King Seiko Hi-Beat', featuring applied baton indices and classic dauphine hands. Case Material: Stainless Steel (SS) Case Size: Approximately 36mm (A classic vintage size) Caseback: Features the iconic King Seiko gold medallion, which is in excellent condition (as seen in images). Condition & Service Movement Condition: The machine has been disassembled and cleaned (Serviced), which is essential for the longevity and accurate running of any vintage high-beat movement. Case Condition: Very good vintage condition with sharp lines; the gold KS medallion is intact and well-preserved. Strap: Fitted with a new/non-original leather strap (Band width: 18mm), ready for immediate wear. Important Notes for Collectors The 56-series King Seikos were produced by the Suwa Seikosha division and are renowned for their robust and accurate design. The 5625A movement, being the date-only version, is slightly less prone to the quick-set date wheel issues sometimes associated with the 5626 Day/Date variant, making it highly desirable among collectors. The black dial variant of the 5625-7010 is less common than the silver/white versions. This watch represents a fantastic opportunity to own a piece of horological history from Seiko's most competitive vintage era, in a striking black dial configuration and with a recently serviced movement.