Seiko Quartz Blue Waffle Dial

The caliber 41 was produced from 1974-1977 and was touted as the first quartz movement small enough to fit in a “ladies” sized case. This particular example is the 4122 which is a three hander with a date function. It is cased in a small men’s or boy’s case as it is sometimes refered to in Japan. The mid 70s was very early in the development of quartz movements, even for Seiko, who was the first to produce quartz for the masses. Being such a nascent technology meant that this watch was very expensive when it came out. In fact, it shared a catalogue with, but was more than twice the cost as some automatic chronographs(cal.61 or 70) and even topped what was left of the automatic King Seikos; the KS56, KS52 and even the Chronometer grade variant in periwinkle blue. It’s worth considering that this watch is not from the mid 80s, based on its size, sleek, clean lines and alternating brushing and polishing. It was really ahead of its time for the mid 70s. This particular example is in excellent condition and comes on the original two-piece, tapered, flat mesh bracelet. The metallic blue waffle dial is near perfect as are the white painted hands and markers. The crystal is new old stock, thin and flat with a small bevel. The bevel conformes to the case shape and has a high polish. The top surface of the case has been re-brushed, giving the watch a nice contrast in finish. The movement runs as it should and has been serviced.

This is an excellent everyday watch; being quarts and having a handy date function make it so. The watch is quite small and flat, similar to watches in Seiko’s Chariot line. However this one isn’t as dressy. The sizing is also suitable for smaller wrists but could look classic on a bigger wrist, typical of how wrist watches were worn in the 40s or 50s.

• New Old Stock Crystal

• Original Bracelet

• 33.5mm Case Width

• 37mm Lug to Lug

• 18mm Lug Width

• 8.5mm Height

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• 32 KHz Quartz Movement

• 3 Jewels

• Seconds Hacking

• Quickset Date

• Flat Crystal with Polished Bevel

• 3 O’clock Crown

• Metal Seiko Branded Bracelet

Average Deviation:

> 15 sec. per month