Fully Restored! Collectible! Birthday Watch July 1960! Seiko 603 Seikomatic 20J JDM Automatic Watch (OH)

A BIRTHDAY WATCH IS A WATCH THAT WAS PRODUCED THE SAME MONTH AND YEAR AS SOMEONE'S BIRTHDAY.

Make: Seiko
Type: Automatic Dress Watch
Model: Seikosha 603
Year of Production: July 1960
Movement: 603
BPH: 18,000
Number of Jewels: 20
Hand and Dial: 3D 14K Solid Gold Stick Indices and Hands, 24K Dial
Width: 37mm
Height: 43mm
Thickness: 11mm
Lug width: 19mm
Strap: Brand-New Hi-Quality Genuine Leather Strap with Silver Clasp Buckle
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

According to most legitimate online information available, the Seiko 603 movement made its debut in 1960 and became known as the 6201 movement when Seiko began to rename all 3 digit calibers to 4 digits. This movement was used in the Seikomatic and Silverwave models; hence, it is safe to assume that this July 1960 JDM watch is one of the earliest batch of Seikomatics produced using the 603 movement.

For Seiko Collectors and Vintage fans, this is a truly one-of-a-kind, highly sort-after Seiko Seikomatic Cal 603, J15007D 20 Jewels Japan Domestic Model (JDM) Gold-Filled Automatic Watch in mint condition. The SD 8 pointed star located on the rim of the case-back authenticates gold-filled status.

This seldom seen 1960 Seiko has a beautifully crafted 24K Gold Flaked Dial. The 18K solid-gold indices and hands add class to an already stunning dial. Both were given a thorough cleaning before laying the gold-flakes on the dial.

The timeless cylindrical shaped case was buffed as best as possible albeit some hairline scratches may be present. The acrylic glass was replaced and is in excellent condition. The crown is original and located at the traditional 4H position and is nicely tucked away to prevent damage and snags, yet easily accessible.

The movement was carefully stripped and meticulously cleaned via ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 16 August 2023. In short, it was given an overhaul and should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing at the very least thereby providing the owner peace of mind.

Equipped with the 603 movement, it has 20 Jewels that operate at 18,000 beats per hour (BPH) giving it excellent accuracy and longevity. The time-grapher shows excellent readings i.e. rate of -4 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 170 in a somewhat straight and center line! 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 painstakingly expert calibration conducted.

The case width and height are approximately 37m (without crown) and 43mm respectively. The lug width is 19mm and the genuine leather saddle strap can accommodate wrists up to 21.0cm; hence this watch is suitable for men and the modern women.

A brand new hi-quality tanned midnight-black vintage leather strap with white stitching and silver clasp buckle is chosen to marry with the silver case and emphasize the 24K gold-flaked dial, and is extremely comfortable to wear.

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.

Due to its age, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested.

The pictures provided shows the watch case in excellent condition, and the movement within squeaky clean 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.

Seldom can one find a vintage watch that offers this and more. Yes, there are many other same / similar models in the market, BUT none are as well-kept and maintained as what you see here, and with an attractive price to boot. So, it is a no-brainer that this one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone born in July 1960! Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life, and should be cherished and well taken care of for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 180.00 to S$ 200.00 for an overhaul, an estimated S$ 80.00 to calibrate (depending on watch condition), and S$ 100.00 to polish including tightening of bracelet links - 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 truly magnificent July 1960 Seiko 603 Seikomatic SUWA 24K gold-flaked dial, 18K solid-gold hands and indices in immaculate condition, and brand new genuine leather strap; so, be unique and use something that is almost impossible to source.

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