1965 Grand Seiko 5722-9990 Chronometer "Self Dater" 57GS

The notable addition to the 57GS was a date window, hence the name “Self-Dater.” Current (and even vintage) Seiko watches of all sorts are so flush with the date function that it’s fun to find that this watch was the first-ever Grand Seiko to sport such a feature. Still, we must remember that at this time, Seiko was highly interested in besting the Swiss. Therefore, the brand wasn’t content with simply adding a date function. This watch, 60 years ago, had a very modern and rare (for the time) quick-set mechanism.

The Grand Seiko 57GS Self-Dater utilized the in-house 35-jewel 5722 series of hand-wound movements. These movements featured hacking and a power reserve of roughly 45 hours. An “A” version and a later “B” version existed, with the former running at 18,000vph and the latter at 19,800vph. It’s an attractive design with just enough decoration. From a function standpoint, the signed “Seiko W” crown adjusts the date on the first stop and sets the time on the second. Furthermore, the movement is housed under a screw-in case back complete with a gold Grand Seiko lion medallion. If you’re wondering, these watches were rated water resistant to an impressive 50 meters.

Information:

Pre-Owned: Grand Seiko 5722-9990 Chronometer "Self Dater"

Reference: 5722-9990

Production Date: May 1965

Strap: Delugs Black Leather Strap

Case Size: 36.5mm

Lug Width: 19mm

Case Metal: Stainless Steel

Movement: 5722A - Manual - serviced 11-10-24

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date

Box and Papers: No box or papers - Watch Only

Crystal: Acrylic

Wrist Size: 7.5"

Condition:

Case has some light scratches with nothing deep or notable. Strap has normal amount of creasing but no marks. Dial has a couple spots but clean other than that. Hands have some scratches. Watch was serviced 11-10-24 and comes with a one year warranty on the movement.

History of Seiko Watches

Seiko's history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a watch shop in Tokyo. In 1892, he established Seikosha, a factory for producing wall clocks. The company quickly progressed, creating Japan's first wristwatch, the Laurel, in 1913. Despite setbacks like the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, Seiko persevered, launching its first watch under the Seiko brand name in 1924.

The post-World War II era saw Seiko's rapid growth and innovation. They introduced Japan's first automatic wristwatch in 1956 and launched the prestigious Grand Seiko line in 1960. Seiko achieved international recognition for accuracy in 1968, winning a Geneva Observatory competition. 

The company made a name for its divers in 1965 with the introduction of their first professional dive watch, the 62MAS. This was followed by the iconic 6159-7001 in 1968, which was water-resistant to 300 meters. Seiko gained international recognition in 1975 with the release of the 6159-7010, nicknamed the "Tuna Can" due to its distinctive case shape. In 1969, they revolutionized the industry with the Astron, the world's first quartz wristwatch, ushering a new era of watchmaking that would send waves across the industry through the 70s and 80s. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global watchmaking giant, Seiko's history is characterized by resilience, technological advancement, and a commitment to precision.