Why This Watch Matters A panda chronograph from Seiko, who would have thought. The Full Story While we've been lucky enough to offer many examples of the other representatives of the race to the first automatic chronograph movement, in 1969, from Zenith, Heuer, Hamilton, and Breitling, the HODINKEE Shop has been neglecting Seiko's admission to the race until now. While this is not the first Seiko automatic chronograph, the ref. 6139, this is a "Panda" ref. 6138-8021, almost if not just as good. This watch is a perfect example of what Seiko gets right time and time again – it is everything you need and nothing you don't. One of the more restrained applications of the early Seiko automatic chronographs, the "Panda" dial layout has a subtle but important spin with slightly greyed sub-registers. We love the double graduation of the six o'clock dial as well, with two numbers in each spot, it somehow does not feel cluttered at all. While the watch is fitted to a period-correct and well-fitting Seiko bracelet, it checks in right at 7in in approximate max wrist size so we included a Sedona watch strap in grey to complete the look. The Fine Print Maker: SeikoModel: Chronograph AutomaticReference: 6138-8021Year: 1977Case No: 7N0377Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 41mm width x 46mm height; 15mm thicknessCrystal: HardlexLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Seiko, self-winding, caliber 6138Bracelet/Strap: Seiko, stainless steel, bracelet with Z027 endlinks (Approximate max wrist size 7in / 178mm) and a HODINKEE Sedona Watch Strap In Phantom RanchLug Width: 19mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: Panda motif Clean overall condition Seiko bracelet Things To Know: Light scratches on case and bracelet The watch is in excellent overall condition. The case is strong with sharp lines on the bezel and lugs. There are some scratches and light nicks on the case. The caseback engravings are crisp. The dial has developed a very light patina throughout. The sub-registers remain very clean. The lume on the dial and in the hands have developed light patina and have aged to the same green, off-white color. The crystal has some scratches. The bezel is in great condition with light wear and the steel blue color is strong. The bracelet is in good condition with some scratches. There is a bit of stretch between the links, but it wears tight. The dial, case, movement, and bracelet clasp are signed by Seiko. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
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