SEIKO 69's / KING SEIKO SUPERIOR CHRONOMETER / Cal.4502A

Here's an introduction to the 1969 Seiko "45 King Seiko Superior Chronometer".

The Cal.4502A movement, mounted on the King Seiko, was developed by Daini Seikosha's Kameido factory for chronometer competitions and re-engineered for commercial release. It is commonly known as the "45-series movement" and was created to compete with Suwa Seikosha, which produced Grand Seiko.

In 1967, it won second place at the Swiss Neuchâtel Chronometer Competition, and in 1968, it became the first movement to officially pass the Japan Chronometer Association certification. Furthermore, it cleared Seiko's unique GS standard, making it a masterpiece movement essential to Seiko's history.

■Dial and Case Design

This watch features a dial that has mellowed into a soft ivory tone, displaying the calm expression unique to a piece that has aged gracefully over many years.

The well-balanced arrangement of refined bar indexes gives it the sharp look characteristic of King Seiko, while the soft colors developed through aging also evoke a sense of tranquility. At the 12 o'clock position, there is a three-dimensional "SEIKO" logo and the inscription "SUPERIOR CHRONOMETER OFFICIALLY CERTIFIED," and at the 6 o'clock position, an applied "KS" logo and "HI-BEAT" inscription are placed. This elegantly conveys the dignity of a high-end model and its nature as a high-precision instrument on the dial.

Both the hands and indexes are slim and uniform, creating a clean and refined overall finish.

The case is a special one that highlights the sharp impression typical of the 45KS. The narrow bezel makes the dial appear wider, achieving a balance that allows for a more straightforward appreciation of the refined dial design. The lugs are designed with thickness, sharply tapering towards the tips, giving the wrist a taut impression. The appeal of this case also lies in its ability to create a strong presence through the beauty of its straight lines and surface composition, without relying on excessive ornamentation.

■Movement

The movement features the 25-jewel, hand-wound Cal.4502A. Known as a high-beat movement representative of the 45 King Seiko series, it is a mechanism that reflects Seiko's pursuit of precision at the time. The smooth operation, characteristic of its 36,000 vibrations per hour high-beat, is also appealing, combining practicality with the charm of a mechanical watch.

■Styling

The case measures 41.1mm in length, 39.1mm in width, 9.2mm in thickness, and weighs 44g.

It pairs particularly well with neat attire such as shirts and jackets, and even when worn with a suit, it adds a subtle tension to the wrist without being overly assertive. On the other hand, it naturally blends with more relaxed outfits like sweaters or light outerwear, making it a versatile choice for both formal and casual occasions.

■Condition

The case shows minor scratches from use but no noticeable damage. The dial has changed due to aging, but this does not affect its legibility. The movement runs smoothly and is in good working order.

■To ensure a confident purchase

All watches handled by our store are internally inspected by a professional watch mechanic upon arrival and are sold only after being authenticated, so you can purchase with confidence.

When you purchase a watch, we will attach a new leather strap.
Please select your desired color from the order selection tab and place your order.
*For watches with genuine straps or metal bands, the leather strap will not be attached but sent separately as a spare.
We will also send a dedicated watch case at the time of shipping.

●Important information after purchasing an antique watch, please read carefully●

At RESUME, when selling antique watches, we do not hand them over immediately upon order.
Instead, we request a complete overhaul (hereinafter OH) from a specialized craftsman, and deliver the watch after the OH is completed. (This period is approximately 1 to 2 months.)

A specialized craftsman, certified as a first-class watch repair technician, will completely disassemble the watch, replace consumable parts such as internal gaskets, clean, lubricate, and perform a thorough OH.
The watch will be maintained to an accuracy of approximately ±1 minute per day. Additionally, when we deliver the watch, we will include our unique OH certificate, explaining the work performed, as well as photos taken during the disassembly and maintenance of the movement.

Of course, due to the nature of used products, there is no guarantee that the watch will never break. However, we take these steps to ensure you can enjoy the original performance of the watch and use it with peace of mind in the future. We appreciate your understanding.

When purchasing a product, a 1-year warranty period is provided depending on the model. Even for products past their warranty period, we offer repair services for a fee.
If you do not have a repair shop nearby, please feel free to contact us.