King Seiko 5245-6000 Details and Impressions

KMII · 2016-08-22T05:24:31Z

Explore the vintage King Seiko 5245-6000 with detailed macro shots and insights into its unique case, movement, and dial features. A must-read for Seiko collectors.

KMII

WPS member · Seiko forum

33 replies18222 views7 photos

KMII's detailed exploration of the vintage King Seiko 5245-6000 offers a valuable look into Seiko's historical craftsmanship. His macro photography and personal observations highlight the unique features and subtle imperfections that define a true collector's piece. This article provides insights into what makes a vintage Seiko special, from its movement to its case design.

I got the 5245-6000 some two months ago as my first vintage Seiko. In addition it has been my first King Seiko and my second Special (got the Grand Seiko SBGH035 first)

Now two months and a macro lens later, here are some more shots and impressions.

The watch works well with a slightly more formal attire - say business casual for instance. The dimensions are pretty good for wearing with a shirt, with both the 35mm case size and the relatively thin case easily slipping under the cuff when required. The dial is covered with lots of text but back in the day it was a feature for Seiko to be an automatic, officially certified chronometer (and I believe this could have been the last Seiko to wear this description, as far as I know). On the bottom is the applied KS logo, the Special logo and the Hi Beat specification. This is perhaps slightly misleading, as the 5245 movement only beats at 28,800 vph but at the time several manufacturers (including JLC) used this designation for 4 Hz watches.

Here a macro of the case back. The 6000 case is a 'front loader', with the movement being removed from the front of the monocoque case - designed in this way for improved water resistance. It comes with some instructions as to movement removal and how to operate the fast movement adjustment mechanism (the watch can be regulated with a screw without opening the case - a pretty cool feature). There is also an engraving for the original owner but I do not read Japanese so cannot tell what it says...

Here a picture of the crown and the side of the case. The crown has a KS logo applied and is relatively easy to operate. What you cannot do with it, though, is to wind the watch. So like with the Seiko 5 watches a lasso movement is required for the initial charging... The setting of the time is pretty standard fare and the watch has a quick set mechanism for the date.

Here a dial detail to show the linen finish, the applied hour indices and KS logo. The dial looks impeccable when looked at with the naked eyebut shows the 45 years of age when viewed under a macro lens. Decent but far from NOS.

Here a picture showing the hands. As popular at the time with a black line at the centre of the hour and minute hands, and a plain seconds hand. The finish and execution of the hands are a lot better than my skills with lighting the macro shot

Here the top of the dial, with the poorly reattached Seiko logo. Not very visible with the naked eye but something I intend to get fixed at the next service, since I cannot stop thinking about it since I've seen it under a macro

Some 'dusting' around the date window would not go amis, either...

Last but not least a Blomman style shot of the complete watch. While this has been my first vintage Seiko, it is most certainly not the last. I quite like it overall and the details - even if the watch is far from impeccable - are quite appealing in my humble opinion.

Thanks for viewing!

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGH035

The Grand Seiko SBGH035 is a limited edition model that features a distinctive dial and a high-beat movement. This reference is part of Grand Seiko's mechanical collection, known for its precision and robust construction. It represents a specific aesthetic within the brand's offerings, appealing to collectors who appreciate subtle design variations and technical performance. The watch maintains the core principles of Grand Seiko's design language while offering a unique visual identity through its dial. It is a notable example of the brand's approach to limited production runs.

The SBGH035 is housed in a stainless steel case, characteristic of many Grand Seiko models, and features a sapphire crystal. It is powered by a high-beat mechanical movement, which operates at a higher frequency than standard movements, contributing to its accuracy. The case dimensions are consistent with other watches in its series, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. The movement offers a substantial power reserve, ensuring reliable operation over an extended period. The construction emphasizes durability and precision engineering.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Grand Seiko with a unique dial and the technical advantages of a high-beat caliber. Its limited edition status adds to its desirability among enthusiasts. The SBGH035 fits into the broader Grand Seiko lineup as a special variant that showcases both the brand's manufacturing capabilities and its attention to detail in design. It is a piece that highlights the brand's commitment to mechanical watchmaking.

Specifications

Caliber: 9S85

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: White

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The 5245-6000 and 5245-6010 models differ primarily in case design, with the 6010 appearing smaller due to its angled sides. Both models, along with the 5256-8010, are considered to embody the classic King Seiko aesthetic inspired by the 'Grammar of Design'.
The 5245-6000 is noted for its unpolished case and original dial, which has developed a desirable patina, indicating good preservation for a vintage piece.
The 5245-6000 features a 'front loader' monocoque case design, intended to improve water resistance, with the movement removed from the front. It also includes a unique external screw for fast movement adjustment without opening the case.
The 5245 movement, despite its 'Hi Beat' designation, operates at 28,800 vph (4 Hz), a frequency that some manufacturers, including JLC, also referred to as 'Hi Beat' at the time.
The author notes that the crown of the 5245-6000 cannot be used for manual winding, requiring a 'lasso movement' for initial charging, similar to some Seiko 5 watches.
The author expresses a challenge in finding service centers for vintage Seiko pieces, questioning if official Seiko Boutiques cater to older models.

The Discussion

Ares501 - Mr Green

Aug 22, 2016

You are really pushing envelope Thanks for enjoyable read and preparation of great work Seiko is doing for years Cordially yours D

KMII

Aug 22, 2016

Glad you like it - more to come with time

cazalea

Aug 22, 2016

Thanks for your photo analysis. (Dust!) Cazalea

KMII

Aug 22, 2016

Yours - as a Credor - is of course in a more elevated league Still need to get myself one but one step at a time - the next Seiko in September and then we'll see!

KMII

Aug 22, 2016

I think you may have seen it at our last GTG Thanks a lot for your appreciation and as said above, hope it gets some vintage company soon!

Seamaster2254

Aug 22, 2016

Man, that is a beautiful watch. Can you tell me from which website you purchased this beauty? There should be few (Japanese??) websites (in English) from which one can order overhauled vintage King Seiko and/or Grand Seiko pieces. But i cannot find any of these sites. Love to purchase a King Seiko and/or a vintage Grand Seiko. Very hard to find one. Stunning watch you have.

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King Seiko 5245-6000 Details and Impressions

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGH035

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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