Birthday Watch September 1968! Seiko Laurel J14010 JDM SUWA 17J Mechanical Wrist Watch (OH)

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

Make: Seiko
Type: Mechanical
Model: Laurel
Year of Production: September 1968
Movement: Caliber 22A
BPH: 18,000
Number of Jewels: 17
Hand and Dial: 3D 14K Gold-Filled Baton Indices and White Gold Dauphine Hands
Width: 34mm
Lug to Lug Height: 42.5mm
Thickness: 10mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Strap: Brand-New Two-Tone Genuine Cowhide Leather with Quick-Release Spring Bars
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 ever produced by Seiko 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 17J mechanical movement with second hand in main movement was launched in 1956 thereby around the same time as the Seiko Marvel. This movement was a significant advancement at the time, featuring 17 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 JDM SUWA in pristine condition, and it is a Collectible for certain!

The silvery-white dial, 3D 14K gold-filled baton indices, and dauphine hands are in superb condition after a good clean-up. The dial markings are easily readable thereby confirming minimal aging of the dial if any.

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 is original 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 22 August 2023. It should be able to operate unhindered for the next 5 to 10 years at the very least thereby providing the owner peace of mind.

Equipped with the excellent and evergreen 22A movement, it has 17 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 -5 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 227 with a straight centered line! Such readings are 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 34mm (without crown) and 42.5mm respectively. The lug width 18mm and the strap can accommodate wrists up to 21cm; hence, this watch is suitable for men and the modern women.

A brand new high-quality two-toned genuine cowhide leather strap with built-in quick-release spring bars 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 show the watch’s 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 someone special born in September 1968! Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

This is a highly sort-after Collectors Seiko Laurel Cal 22A 17J 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!