1972 Seiko 6105-8119 (Captain Willard)

This freshly serviced icon is a must have for any collector who appreciates history and the significance of Seiko's early trajectory into the sports watch category. With crisp edges, its original steel finish still shining through, and mounted on a brand new Uncle Seiko rubber strap, this impeccable vintage 6105 is ready for action. 

 

ITS PLACE IN HISTORY & POP CULTURE

As only the 3rd dive watch to be released by Seiko (produced from 1970 - 1977), the Seiko 6105-8110/9 (aka 6105-811X) is perhaps one of the most affordable icons of the early Seiko divers.

Sold in military PX's in the 1970's, The 6105 was a common choice among US servicemen deployed to Vietnam. And because of its tank-like build quality, it was also a popular choice with professional divers, and generally, a popular alternative to the more expensive Rolex Submariner. 

Its status as a favorite among collectors was crystallized when it appeared on the wrist of Charlie Sheen’s character, Captain Willard, in the cult classic film, Apocalypse Now. 

This particular reference, 6105-8119 is indistinguishable from the 6105-8110 (aside from a slightly different configuration on the case-back stamp). The last digit "9" indicates that this watch was designated for the US market.

CONDITION & SPECS

To put it plainly, this example is in exceptional condition. This piece is freshly serviced, and running as it should. The original crystal has been replaced by a crisp new hardlex crystal from Klein (a faithful replica of the original). The original crystal will be included with the purchase. The all-original bi-directional bezel shows a scratch across the original lumed pip, but is otherwise in excellent shape. The bezel has a firm click, in all but one spot in its rotation. The case is in exceptional condition for its age with sharp edges, and very light wear appropriate for its age. The original brushed finish can still be seen on the top and under-side of the case. The dial is in particularly excellent condition, and unblemished. The lume on the markers is clean and undamaged, and the original hands are showing only minor signs of age around the edges. The signature "stop sign second hand", still holds its red coloring (as can be seen in the pictures), a bonus for these watches, as many have faded considerably over time. All in all, this 6105 checks a lot of boxes in the condition department...and examples like this don't come up too often.

Brand: Seiko
Model: 6105-8119
Production Year: May, 1972
Complication: Date
Case Material: Steel
Case Size: 44mm (without crown)
Dial Colour: Matte black
Depth Rating: 150m 
Bezel: bi-directional, click
Crystal: Hardlex, type II (from Klein), with original crystal included
Lug Width: 19mm
Movement: Seiko Automatic 6105b movement, 17 Jewel Automatic, 21,600 bph (6bps), Hacking, quick date set 
Service History: Freshly serviced, Summer 2021

Read Buying a Vintage Watch before making your purchase.