1983 Seiko 7A28-701A “Speedmaster” Chronograph

Though we typically only offer vintage mechanical watches, it’s hard to ignore the allure of a quartz watch that started a revolution. At a time when quartz meant LCD displays and designs so far removed from tradition that they were hardly recognizable as wrist watches, Seiko took a step backwards in order to bring watch design forward.

The 7A28 was the worlds first analog quartz chronograph, and to say they got it right is an understatement. The 7A28 is a 15 jewel movement devoid of a single piece of plastic. It can be regulated to dial in performance and was built in a way that allowed for the replacement of worn components. The same can’t be said for most of the quartz movements seen even today.

It featured distinct hooded lugs and the signature button layout of the Seiko 7Axx series chronographs: chronograph start and stop at 2, reset at 4, crown at 8 and another one at 10.

In the last couple of years, collectability for these 7A models has begun to skyrocket, and it’s easy to see why. A JDM model, it carries the “Speedmaster” helmet logo on the original bracelet.

The Seiko Speedmaster 7A28-701A features a matte black dial with three matching recessed sub-dials at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock. Visual depth comes from a prominent white inner chapter ring with tritium hour markers, forming a stark border against the outer black tachymeter scale. The monochromatic aesthetic is finished with crisp white typography and contrasting white hands—including pencil main hands, sub-dial hands, and a sharp central chronograph seconds hand—delivering optimum legibility and a clean display.

Condition:

Overall this watch is in excellent condition. The dial and hands are lovely, blemish free.  The glass has no visible scratches.  The case is largely scratch free except for the caseback which has some scratches (from rubbing of bracelet when not worn). 

The movement has been fully serviced by our Watchmaker who specializes in Seiko watches.   A new battery and case back gasket have been installed.   All functions work as they should and the second hand re-sets correctly (an issue with un-serviced models).

The exceptionally long bracelet will comfortably fit a wrist up to 8 inches. 

Specifications:

Diameter: 37mm (excluding crown & pushers), lug to lug 41.5mm, thickness: 10mm

Bracelet: Stainless steel YA17A

Lug witdh: 20mm

Production Date: February 1983