Seiko

Seiko was named the official timer at the Olympic Games but they did not have any previous sports timing experience. Ambitious development programs commenced in 1961 and various divisions were delegated various tasks. Some of the items needed were large timing devices, stop watches, electronic timing devices, etc. Some new technology included a timing device that started by the sound of the starter gun and stopped from the touch of pads at the end of the swimming pool. Additionally photo finish was used at the goal line to determine questionable outcomes in various races. 

Seiko wanted to release wristwatches with complications at the games to demonstrate its technical capabilities. The first ever Seiko GMT (ref. 6217-7000) and first ever chronograph (ref. 5719) were released. (Note: in the 40s Seiko supplied military forces with a chronograph model but this was not commercially available). 

The 5719 was a mechanical mono pusher chronograph with a power reserve of 38 hours with the chronograph running. Initial batch was fitted with luminous hands and a plastic bezel which was replaced shortly thereafter by a metallic bezel. I have heard of bakelite bezels being used as well but not seen one myself. The plastic bezels proved to be too fragile and metallic bezels were used instead. Dial color options were white or black with white being by far the more common. Case measures 38.2mm excluding the crown, 11.2mm thick and lug width is 18mm. 

I managed to acquire a 5719 a few years ago in a configuration that I was looking for. White dial, dauphine hands without lume, metal bezel. To me personally the most aestetically appealing combo but there are many cool versions. It certainly feels a bit like a time capsule wearing this timepiece. Takes me on a mental journey back to 1964 even though it was many years before I was born.  

Interesting are the two ads below, one from the United States and one domestic Japan. Note the chronograph is listed at USD 29.45 in the US and JPY 8,500 in Japan at the time which makes sense given that is roughly were the exchange rate was back then.... 

Information sources: Watchtime, Adventuresinamateurwatchfettling

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