Seiko - 沒有保留價 - Chariot 5931-5280 - 男士 - 1980

Introduction

Presented here is a vintage Seiko Quartz Chariot, reference 5931-5280, distinguished by its slim rectangular profile, black dial, gold-tone detailing, and highly durable tungsten carbide case.

The sharp geometric design and restrained proportions give the watch an elegant late-1970s to early-1980s character. At only approximately 5.3 mm thick, it sits discreetly on the wrist and works particularly well as a refined dress watch.

Historical & Collector Value

The Seiko Chariot line is appreciated by collectors for its minimalist styling and its place in the development of compact Japanese quartz watches.

Introduced in 1978, the Seiko Quartz Chariot Cal. 5931 was the first quartz wristwatch to incorporate an adaptive drive-control system. This reduced power consumption and contributed to the development of smaller and thinner analogue quartz watches. In 2024, the model was registered by Japan’s National Museum of Nature and Science as an “Essential Historical Material for Science and Technology,” also known as a Future Technology Heritage item.

The case-back serial number is 070258. Based on the commonly used Seiko serial-number system, the first digit represents the final digit of the production year and the second digit represents the month. Taking the 1978 introduction of Cal. 5931 into account, this watch is estimated to have been manufactured in July 1980. This date is an informed estimate rather than an official factory-issued production certificate.

Its uncommon rectangular form, historically significant quartz calibre, and tungsten carbide construction make it an appealing piece for collectors of early Seiko quartz watches.

Specifications
Brand: Seiko
Collection: Quartz Chariot
Reference / Case number: 5931-5280
Movement: Seiko Cal. 5931 quartz
Functions: Hours, minutes and central seconds
Estimated production date: July 1980
Serial number: 070258
Dial: Black
Hour markers: Applied baton indexes
Hands: Gold-tone
Case material: Tungsten carbide
Bezel: Gold-tone
Case back: Stainless steel
Case shape: Rectangular
Case size: Approximately 26.9 mm, excluding the crown
Thickness: Approximately 5.3 mm
Lug width: Approximately 19 mm
Strap width: Approximately 18 mm
Strap: New black leather-style strap
Maximum wrist circumference: Approximately 19 cm
Weight: Approximately 27 g
Accessories: Watch only; no original box or papers
Internal inventory number: 26F157
Condition

This is a vintage pre-owned watch.

The tungsten carbide case is in good overall condition and retains its distinctive sharp, architectural shape. Only light age-related surface marks are visible, with no major damage apparent.

The gold-tone bezel shows mild ageing and colour variation consistent with the watch’s vintage character. The crystal and stainless steel case back display some scratches and signs of previous use.

The black dial remains attractive, with a clean and restrained layout. Please inspect all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.

All functions have been checked, and the watch is currently operating correctly. The crown and time-setting function have also been tested.

Water resistance has not been tested. Due to the age of the watch, contact with water should be avoided.

Service History

A new battery has been installed, and all functions were checked before listing.

A new black strap has also been fitted, allowing the watch to be worn immediately upon arrival.

As with any vintage quartz watch, future accuracy and long-term operation cannot be guaranteed to the same standard as a new watch.

Shipping & Customs

The watch will be securely packaged and shipped internationally with tracking.

Any customs duties, VAT, import taxes, brokerage fees or handling charges imposed by the destination country are the sole responsibility of the buyer.

IMPORTANT – Customs & Import Taxes
If customs duties / VAT are not paid by the buyer, the parcel cannot be delivered and will be returned. In such cases, the sale will not be refunded. Please make sure to pay all customs charges promptly.