SEIKO Monopusher Chronograph, 1960s

— The moment the hand began to move —

1964, and the Tokyo Olympics had the world's attention. Seiko, official timekeeper of those Games, gathered Japanese technique and ambition into the country's first chronograph.

A single chronograph hand runs beautifully from the centre of the dial. With no extra registers and a single pusher controlling start, stop and reset, the design has an honesty that still carries quiet authority.

— The torch-bearer on the case back —

A torch-runner relief is stamped proudly into the case back — the moment Japanese watchmaking stepped out into the world. The serial number dates this example to May 1964, exactly when the enthusiasm around the Games was reaching its peak.

— Calibre 5719A —

Open the case back and there is the beautifully finished calibre SEIKO 5719A, built around a column wheel — the mark of a serious chronograph — which is why the pushers have such a crisp action. "SEIKO 21JEWELS" engraved on the movement still carries its makers' refusal to compromise.

— Better with age —

A black rotating bezel and raised markers stand out against the silver dial. On a Tropic-type rubber strap the watch turns classical and sporting at once — and more than half a century has taken nothing away from it.

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