Three automatic chronograph watches were released in 1969. Without a doubt, the one with the most lasting impact was the Seiko Caliber 6139. The combination of the compact automatic winding mechanism with a vertical clutch for more precise stopwatch measurement and a column wheel, which became widespread among high-end chronograph watches, is still favored by many watchmakers today.
Toshihiko Ohki, who had successfully created the hand-winding Crown Chronograph in 1964 at Suwa Seikosha (now Seiko Epson), was put in charge of developing the new chronograph. The automatic winding 61 Series he had designed on its base was adopted in the 61 5 Sports, which became a big hit. Buoyed by this success, Ohki at last set about designing an automatic chronograph.
Fortunately, Seiko made lots of 6139’s and 6138’s. You can buy a good one in the $500 range, which is great for all of us who love Seiko watches. If the 6138 was a Swiss watch, a decent one would cost much, much more.
I thank you for the chance to be able gain some insight into the chronograph design and history I have always liked chronographs, so thank you very much. Luke Christian
Nice to see Seiko getting the recognition they deserve when it comes to automatic chronographs. I have a 6139 from February 1969 which I consider a piece of horological history. Thanks for the article.
Seiko is without doubt one of the greatest watch companies in the world with something for everyone. As a vertically integrated watch manufacturer they are not just a “caser” brand like most of the Swiss are today…Seiko actually contribute to the science and art of watch making, and would have won the Geneva watch trials had the Swiss not changed the laws to only allow watches made in Europe to compete….
From Gerry Dimatos.
Fortunately, Seiko made lots of 6139’s and 6138’s. You can buy a good one in the $500 range, which is great for all of us who love Seiko watches. If the 6138 was a Swiss watch, a decent one would cost much, much more.
I thank you for the chance to be able gain some insight into the chronograph design and history I have always liked chronographs, so thank you very much. Luke Christian
Nice to see Seiko getting the recognition they deserve when it comes to automatic chronographs. I have a 6139 from February 1969 which I consider a piece of horological history. Thanks for the article.
Seiko is without doubt one of the greatest watch companies in the world with something for everyone. As a vertically integrated watch manufacturer they are not just a “caser” brand like most of the Swiss are today…Seiko actually contribute to the science and art of watch making, and would have won the Geneva watch trials had the Swiss not changed the laws to only allow watches made in Europe to compete….
From Gerry Dimatos.