Collectible! Circa 1950s Seiko Laurel Seikosha J14012 JDM SUWA 11J Mechanical Watch (OH)

Make: Seiko
Type: Mechanical
Model: Laurel
Year of Production: Circa 1950 to 1956
Movement: Seikosha
BPH: 18,000
Number of Jewels: 11
Hand and Dial: 3D 14K Gold-Filled Baton Indices with Dauphine Hands
Width: 33mm
Lug to Lug Height: 40mm
Thickness: 10mm
Lug Width: 17mm
Strap: Brand-New Hi-Quality Genuine Leather Strap with Silver Buckle
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

A brief history:

Introduced in 1913 by Kintaro Hattori, the founder of Seiko, the Seiko Laurel was the first wristwatch Seiko produced and marked the beginning of Seiko's journey into the world of wristwatches. Prior to the Seiko Laurel, Seiko was primarily known for producing pocket watches and clocks.

One of the significant aspects of the Seiko Laurel was that it was created using supposed in-house manufacturing capabilities. Seiko took control of the entire production process, from designing the movement to assembling the watch components. This approach laid the foundation for Seiko's reputation for precision and quality.

According to historical records, the Seiko Laurel SUWA 11J Seikosha mechanical movement with second hand in main movement was launched prior to 1956 before the introduction of the Seiko Marvel. This movement was a significant advancement at the time, featuring 11 jewels for improved accuracy and durability. The use of jewel bearings in watch movements helped reduce friction and wear on critical components, leading to better timekeeping and longer-lasting performance.

For Seiko Collectors and Vintage fans, this is a Seiko Laurel Seikosha JDM SUWA in pristine condition, and it is a Collectible for certain!

The egg-white dial, 3D 14K gold-filled baton indices, and dauphine hands are in superb condition after a good clean-up; however, the dial does show age marks which is common for vintage watches.

This simple yet elegantly shaped silver case was also given a good ultrasonic wash and polish while maintaining its super sexy curves. Most age imperfections were removed without compromising the case shape. The crystal was replaced and was given a good polish.

The crown is original and located at the 3H position and is nicely tucked away yet easily accessible.

The movement had undergone a complete overhaul. It was carefully stripped and meticulously cleaned via ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 15 April 2024. It should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby providing the owner peace of mind.

Equipped with the excellent and evergreen Seikosha movement, it has 11 Jewels that operate at 18,000 beats per hour (BPH) giving it excellent accuracy and longevity. The time-grapher, after 60 hours of calibration, shows excellent readings i.e. rate of +2 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 235 with straight centered lines! Such readings are truly exceptional even by brand new modern automatic watch standards whereby the accepted tolerance is -20 to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, excellent power reserve and longevity for such a vintage timepiece, the meticulous care provided over the years, and of course the painstaking calibration conducted.

The case width and height are approximately 33mm (without crown) and 40mm respectively. The lug width 17mm and the strap can accommodate wrists up to 20cm; hence, suitable for men and the modern women.

A brand new high-quality genuine leather strap with Silver Buckle is provided.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Seiko components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket parts or modified thereby it is considered in near MINT condition.

This timepiece has not been water-resistant tested due to its age.

The pictures provided shows the watch case in near mint condition and well maintained. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear & tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. A nice purposeful carrying case or box will be provided instead.

Yes, there are many other same / similar models in the market, BUT almost all are not in the same quality condition and well maintained as what you see here. Hence, it is a no-brainer that this one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone. Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 180.00 to S$ 200.00 for a complete overhaul, an estimated S$ 80.00 to calibrate, and S$ 40.00 to buff such a watch case - these costs do not apply when purchasing this timepiece. So, if anyone was to sell such a timepiece at a low price yet claim that it has been serviced, one has to ask what kind of servicing was conducted, if any.

This is a highly sort-after Collectors Seiko Laurel Seikosha 11J in pristine condition; so, be unique and wear something that is almost impossible to source. In fact, purchase it as an investment or for the next generation to appreciate.

This is a must-have for the Seiko die-hard fan, and in fact, any serious watch collector!