25 Jun 2010

SOLD: SEIKO Automatic Diver 6309-7290 Sharkproof Plongeur


Watch is SOLD.

After selling my first SEIKO Plongeur, I purchased another slim-case vintage SEIKO 6309-7290. Just like the first Plongeur, it also has a nice unmolested case and a clean 6309A movement. Time for another Plongeur.


As usual, watch was dismantled to pieces. Every parts were cleaned and checked. A new Plongeur dial and hands were installed. This time I use second hand with orange tip, a small touch but it brings a new vivid look to the dial.


All parts assembled. Compared to the first Plongeur, this second Plongeur has many upgraded parts. New chrome chapter ring, new domed sapphire crystal with AR coating, and high-quality aftermarket bezel insert. The best part of all is the new heavy-duty mesh bracelet.

The mesh bracelet is so striking in appearance that I think it is only suitable for really bold-looking watch. It reminds me of the anti-shark steel mesh suit worn by divers to protect them from shark bite. Therefore, I call this new Plongeur: the Sharkproof Plongeur.



The first time I saw the mesh bracelet, I know it is destined for the 6309 diver. From side view, we can see that the mesh pattern matches the double-stack grip pattern around the bezel, creating a harmonic flow of pattern around the dial. A perfect combination indeed.



21 Jun 2010

SOLD: SEIKO Automatic Diver 7S26-7020 SKX171 PMMM


Up for sale is my SEIKO Automatic Diver 7S26-7020 SKX171 PMMM (Poor Man's Marine Master).

Production date: Jul 2002.
Case dimension:
  • Width: 42 mm (excludes crown).
  • Thickness: 13 mm.
  • Lug: 22 mm.
Description:
All genuine SEIKO parts except for the Super Oyster II bracelet.
Original SKX171 dial in good condition. Lumes on index markers still glow.
Genuine SEIKO Titanium Samurai diver hands in good condition. Lume on hands glow in the same color and brightness as the dial.
Genuine SKX007 bezel rotates uni-directionally with 120 clicks. Bezel clicks firmly without play.
Genuine SKX007 bezel insert is in good condition.
Original crystal is lightly scratched.
Case and case back are in good condition. There is swirly on the case at the 9 o'clock position but can be buffed out easily. Edges and corners are sharp. Factory finish lines are clearly visible on the top surface of the case.
Movement and day-date setting mechanism are working flawlessly. It was given full TLC (tuning, lubrication, calibration) by Jack Alexyon from IWW, one of the best SEIKO watchmaker. Accuracy is within spec.
Crown locks in 2x full turn.
Water resistant is unknown because previous owner does not inform me about water pressure test.
Comes with high quality Super Oyster II bracelet with solid end links which accept fat spring bars.
Price: SOLD.

The bad: Crystal is lightly scratched and case has little swirly.