US import tariffs: Non-US origin lots in this sale (including watches and timepieces with Swiss-made or non-US made movements) will be subject to special tariffs upon import to the USA, currently ranging from 10% to 39% on the total invoice price (hammer price plus buyer’s premium). Buyers are responsible for paying any applicable tariffs, duties, taxes and charges when importing their purchased lots. Due to the evolving nature of international trade regulations, we recommend clients consult with their local customs office or advisor for up-to-date information on the applicable tariffs.
129
Seiko
Ref. 6139-6010
An early and historically significant stainless steel chronograph wristwatch
- Estimate
- CHF3,000 - 6,000•€3,200 - 6,500$3,800 - 7,500
CHF15,240
Lot Details
- Manufacturer
- Seiko
- Year
- Circa 1969
- Reference No
- 6139-6010
- Case No
- 910'148
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Calibre
- Automatic, cal. 6139A, 21 jewels
- Bracelet/Strap
- Stainless steel Sieko bracelet, max length 175mm
- Clasp/Buckle
- Stainless steel Seiko deployant clasp
- Dimensions
- 38.5mm diameter
- Signed
- Case, dial and movement signed
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
The Seiko Reference 6139-6010 is a game-changing reference as we believe it is the world’s first automatic chronograph wristwatch released to the public, thanks to journalists such as Plus9Time in their article, which confirms the model’s commercial launch on May 21, 1969. This groundbreaking achievement by Seiko’s Suwa Seikosha factory marked a seismic shift in watchmaking, outpacing Swiss competitors and establishing Japan as a formidable fo drce in precision engineering. The present example, dating to January 1969, is the earliest known surviving example of this reference, offering collectors an extraordinary opportunity to own a pivotal piece of watchmaking history from its inaugural production run. (The watch’s case serial number is just 1 digit lower than that of the watch previously known to be the earliest example, and more than a decade passed between the discovery of that watch, and the present one.)
The Reference 6139-6010 exudes a sporty yet refined aesthetic, with its bold black dial and vibrant red chronograph hands. The watch’s design reflects the era’s fascination with speed and innovation, earning it the moniker “Speed-Timer.” Powered by the caliber 6139A, a 17-jewel automatic movement, it features an integrated vertical clutch and column wheel mechanism, with a 30-minute chronograph function, showcasing Seiko’s technical ingenuity.
This reference gained iconic status in the early 1970s when it was famously worn by martial arts legend Bruce Lee, cementing its cultural significance. Lee’s association with the 6139-6010, often seen on his wrist during film productions and public appearances, imbued the watch with a timeless charisma that resonates with collectors today.
The present example is offered in unpolished condition, with a well-preserved case exhibiting sharp edges and original finishes, and to this day sports its original crystal. The dial retains its deep black luster, with luminous markers showing consistent patina, and the chronograph functions flawlessly. Accompanied by its original stainless steel bracelet, this watch is a complete and authentic representation of Seiko’s pioneering spirit. As the earliest known surviving example, its January 1969 production date places it at the very genesis of the automatic chronograph era.
The historical and cultural significance of the Seiko 6139-6010 makes this lot a cornerstone for any serious collection.
The Reference 6139-6010 exudes a sporty yet refined aesthetic, with its bold black dial and vibrant red chronograph hands. The watch’s design reflects the era’s fascination with speed and innovation, earning it the moniker “Speed-Timer.” Powered by the caliber 6139A, a 17-jewel automatic movement, it features an integrated vertical clutch and column wheel mechanism, with a 30-minute chronograph function, showcasing Seiko’s technical ingenuity.
This reference gained iconic status in the early 1970s when it was famously worn by martial arts legend Bruce Lee, cementing its cultural significance. Lee’s association with the 6139-6010, often seen on his wrist during film productions and public appearances, imbued the watch with a timeless charisma that resonates with collectors today.
The present example is offered in unpolished condition, with a well-preserved case exhibiting sharp edges and original finishes, and to this day sports its original crystal. The dial retains its deep black luster, with luminous markers showing consistent patina, and the chronograph functions flawlessly. Accompanied by its original stainless steel bracelet, this watch is a complete and authentic representation of Seiko’s pioneering spirit. As the earliest known surviving example, its January 1969 production date places it at the very genesis of the automatic chronograph era.
The historical and cultural significance of the Seiko 6139-6010 makes this lot a cornerstone for any serious collection.