In the mid-1960s, Seiko's Suwa and Daini factories entered the Swiss chronometer trials to push their technical limits. These trials, which emphasized long-term accuracy over several days, led both factories to experiment with high-beat movements to achieve sustained precision.
 
The first King Seiko models to feature the renowned Caliber 45, produced by Daini for the Neuchatel Chronometer trials, were the no-date 45-7000 and the date-equipped 4502-7000, released in 1968.
 
The case design, evolving from the earlier 4420-9990, featured distinctive 'wings' extending from each upper lug to the lower lug on either side of the central cylinder. These wings became a hallmark of King Seiko case designs, appearing in both the 56KS series, sold alongside the 45KS series, and the later 2001 SCVN001 re-issue.
 
The dial of the Ref. 45-7000 was similar to the 44KS dials, with the same white sunburst base. The elongated, rhodium-plated markers on the 45KS dials now included a black stripe for better visibility. The hands also had a central black stripe to match the markers but were simpler in construction, lacking the previous generation's machined edge bevel. The King Seiko script was replaced in the 45KS series by a more straightforward 'KS' logo at 6 o'clock above the new 'HI-BEAT' text.
 
The King Seiko 45-7001 is a remarkable watch, well worth considering if you want to own a piece of history. For those wishing to experience the Showa era, we offer a rare complete set deadstock example: Impeccably preserved with all original tags, straps, a rare flat KS buckle, and the box and outer box.

The watch works flawlessly and will be sold as-is to retain its original condition. Please let us know if you wish to service it.
 
Shipped from Tokyo, Japan.