Seiko introduced the Alpinist wristwatch in 1961 with the intention of it becoming a reliable timepiece for Japanese mountain climbers and other sports enthusiasts alike. The production of this watch was important because it was the first real attempt at making a sports watch by Seiko. Seiko Alpinist watches started being produced in 1961 and were inspired by Yama-otoko which is Japanese for mountain men.
After the successfuly fist Seiko Laurel Alpinist, the next Alpinist also came under the Champion series. In quick succession there were three Stainless Steel model types, the J13043, the J13049 and the J13079, all marked WATERPROOF on the dial, and case back. The case back has the now-iconic mountain symbol with Alpinist engraved beneath for the J13043 and J13049 models and Alpinist 850 engraved beneath for the J13049 model. The 17J Seikosha movement continued in the J13043 and J13049 models, but an automatic caliber 850 and later 851 rated at 18,000bph with Diashock protection was used in the J13079 model. Commonly all 3 models are called Champion 850 Alpinists.
The model we have to offer is the iconic J13079 with the 24 hours markers dial variation.
This particular model is very popular amoung the Alpinist collectors and this is a great opportunity to acquire a perfect example like this one.
The watch will be serviced upon purchase and will take 1-2 months to complete.
Ships from Tokyo, Japan.
Seiko Champion Alpinist J13079
Overall, this piece is pristine condition. The case is very sharp with no noticeable scratches, it's mostly likely the watch is unused. The original dial, hands and lumes are immaculate with no signs of rotting or deterioration . The crown is original and correct for this model with the signed SW (Seiko Waterproof) mark. The glass and caseback are immaculate with no signs of scratches.
BRAND: Seiko
MODEL: Champion Alpinist
REFERENCE: J13079
DIAL: Original silver dial
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
CASE DIMENSIONS: 35mm diameter; 13mm thickness, 18mm lug width
CRYSTAL: Mineral Crystal
CASE BACK: Snap-in Stainless Steel
MOVEMENT: Manual Cal.850
Manufacturing date: 1963
Service History: Unknown, ±20s/day
Bracelet/Strap: Vintage navy blue Maruman leather straps.