Seiko Diver Proof / Proof (Ref. 6105-8110) "Captain Willard", 1970

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Although they may not be the most luxurious or difficult watches to obtain, Seiko watches are loved by collectors both at the entry level and by the most decerning collector with a cult-like following. There is a specific sense of satisfaction that comes from wearing a Seiko that you are a part of a long lineage of excellent watchmaking and extreme attention to detail in a resilient fashion across the range of Seiko timepieces. The Seiko 6105-8110 series replaced Seiko’s original professional diver, the 62MAS, in 1968 and was produced until the year 1977. The 6105-8110 was the first Seiko diver to use an asymmetrical case and integrated crown guards which can still be seen in the modern Seiko Professional divers today which makes the 6105 an icon. If you have ever owned a vintage Seiko Diver then you will know that the build quality and finishing of the Seiko 6105-8110 is exceptional, and without a doubt definitely on par with dive watches of the same period, like the Omega Seamaster 300 and the Rolex Submariner. The Seiko 6105 is famous for its presence in the 1979 Francis Coppola film Apocalypse Now as Martin Sheen’s character, Captain Willard can be seen wearing one all throughout the film. Being true to detail the Seiko 6105 was a watch that was commonly seen on the wrist of soldiers during the Vietnam War as it was sold in military PX’s and while not the most inexpensive watch it was certainly less expensive than a Rolex Submariner and possessed the same tool like quality and dependability of an automatic movement. This exceptionally rare and early Seiko ref. 6105-8110 dates to 1970 and is the highly desirable "Proof / Proof" variant. "Proof / Proof" is in reference to the depth rating on the dial as well as the "waterproof" case back markings and it is believed that this combination of text was only produced for the first 2 months of the 6105-8110 production. Stock # SKO61058110-70PP Brand Seiko Style Diver Model 6105-8110 Serial 26XXXX Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Matte Black Millimeters 44 Bracelet Stainless Steel Olongapo Bracelet CASE & BRACELET The excellent case exhibits honest wear and is believed to remain unpolished, showing crisp factory finishing throughout the case back. The original bezel remains deep black with honest signs of use and retains its luminous pearl at the 12 o'clock position which has aged to a creamy patina. The case back shows honest wear and retains all of its factory markings in visible and crisp condition. The watch comes supplied on a custom 2pc stainless steel Olongapo bracelet that will fit a 7 1/4 inch and a 7 1/2 inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The matte black dial shows honest age and though no major damage is present, making for an attractive vintage aesthetic. The lume plots have taken on a lovely grey / tan patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The original lume hands match the dial nicely with no degradation visible under U.V. light inspection. ACCESSORIES