Prior to launching their first automatic chronograph, the 6139, Seiko had decided to commemorate the Olympic Games in Tokyo by introducing two new and specialized watches that would play significant roles in the Seiko narrative. The initial watch was the 6217 World Time, followed by a monopusher chronograph with a 60-second timer.
The inaugural model, known as the 45899, showcased the Olympic torch on its case back. However, shortly thereafter, a second model, the 5717-8990, was also unveiled. The 5717 remained in production for a few more years and incorporated a date feature. It laid the foundation for future Seiko mechanical chronographs, as it utilized the hand-wound Crown movement base, featured a column wheel design, and employed horizontal coupling to drive the second hand across the dial. The single pusher was responsible for starting, stopping, and resetting the mechanism.
We’ve paired this rare treat with suede gray leather that brings a casual finish and adds great versatility.
This model is one of our favorites and will definitely be in any collection.
Ships from Tokyo, Japan.
SOLD - Seiko Monopusher 5717-8990
Brand: Seiko
Year: Circa 1964
Model: Monopusher Chronograph
Reference Number: 5717-8990
Material: Stainless Steel
Movement: Cal. 5717
Case Diameter: 37mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Bracelet/Strap: Gray suede leather strapThis Seiko monopusher is in very good condition and appears to be fully original: This example from September of 1964 would have been among the ones produced just after the end of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics chapter. The dial is a lacquered silver sunburst with polished baguette markers and a date aperture at three o’clock.
The dial is flawless: Framing the dial is a black chapter with a white minute track, and the lettering on the dial is a minimalist print that contributes to an overall crisp aesthetic. The case is one of our favorites in all of Seiko’s history and has few light scratches. The lugs are long and tapered with a clean bevel along the outer edge.
The steel bezel rotates smoothly in either direction and sits prominently over top with a staggered knurling along the edge, and black inlay in the engraved markings. The “Seahorse” case back shows very little wear and all of its markings are still crisp and legible. The movement has been inspected It is keeping great time with +3s/day and the chronograph functions are crisp and responsive.