1983 Seiko 7A28-7100 “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. As a JDM model,  ths example carries the “Speedmaster” helmet logo on the original bracelet.

The 1983 Seiko 7A28-7100 "Speedmaster" captures the peak of early-80s sport-chronograph design, balancing rugged utility with sleek, racing-inspired aesthetics. Its contoured 40mm stainless steel case with hooded lugs is anchored by a vibrant red-and-blue "Pepsi" bezel. Beneath the crystal, the stark black dial features three deeply recessed, symmetrical subdials and a bright orange sweeping chronograph hand that injects a bold pop of color.

Condition:

Overall this watch is in excellent condition. The dial and hands are lovely, blemish free.  The glass has no visible scratches.  The case, bezel, caseback and bracelet all have some light surface scratches from normal wear.

Our watchmaker has checked the movement and a new battery and gasket installed. All functions work as they should and the second hand re-sets correctly (an issue with un-serviced models).

The bracelet will comfortably fit a wrist up to 7.4 inches. 

Specifications:

Diameter: 40mm x 44mm (thickness 10mm)

Lug width: 20mm

Bracelet: original factory bracelet with minimal stretch. 

Production Date: September 1983