The captivating tale of inter-corporate rivalry between Grand Seiko and King Seiko during the 1960s and '70s has intrigued all who have come across it. During that era, Seiko operated two separate factories dedicated to watch production. The Suwa factory produced Grand Seiko timepieces, while the Daini factory was responsible for crafting King Seiko watches. The purpose behind having these distinct factories was to foster internal competition and strive for the creation of the absolute best timepieces. This 1971 King Seiko exemplifies the outcome of this endeavor.
 
The featured watch, a reference 45-7001, belongs to the final five years of King Seiko production. It houses the manually wound, high-beat caliber 4500A, as indicated on the dial. Part of the renowned 45~ series of King Seiko movements, the 4500A operates at a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5 Hz), offering enhanced accuracy to its wearer.
 
The off-white dial showcases applied hour markers with precise facets, mirroring the design of the handset. Neither the markers nor the hands are luminescent, instead featuring clean black striping along their central portions. The case is a standout feature, displaying a close resemblance to the renowned designs found in Grand Seiko timepieces. It exhibits clean lines, graceful angles, and a high level of polish throughout. Notably, the center of the case back features a gold King Seiko medallion, symbolizing the watch's superior craftsmanship and design.
 
Owning this historic King Seiko timepiece presents a truly exceptional and rare opportunity.
 
Please note that the watch will undergo servicing upon purchase, which is estimated to take approximately 1-2 months.
 
Shipped from Tokyo, Japan.