Seiko Navigator Timer GMT, Resist Dial Ref. 6117-6419 (c. 1970)

A cult-classic GMT from Seiko’s golden era. Tool watch DNA with a pilot’s twist, executed with unmistakable 1970s character and charm.  

 A Note from the Curator

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a watch that does exactly what it was built to do. No excess, no gimmicks, just thoughtful, functional design. The Seiko Navigator Timer Ref. 6117-6419 is a perfect example. As Seiko’s second crack at a pilot-style GMT, this reference refines the formula in all the right ways: a broader tonneau case, an internal rotating 24-hour bezel (controlled by the crown), and a highly legible dial layout that feels both purposeful and balanced.

What sets this example apart is its very early “Resist” dial part of a short transitional period in beginning in late 1970 when Seiko shifted its water resistance labeling. These details, while subtle, are exactly the kind of nuance collectors gravitate toward. The matte black dial is crisp and clean, framed by a vibrant red-and-blue inner bezel that has retained its colour beautifully. The signature red “dog-leg” GMT hand remains bold and intact, doing exactly what it was designed to do…track a second time zone with clarity and ease.

Powering the watch is the robust Caliber 6117B, an evolution of the original Navigator movement, now with a hacking function for added precision. It’s a workhorse in the truest sense: reliable, durable, and built for real-world use.

A thoughtful evolution of Seiko’s early GMT platform, this Navigator Timer captures everything enthusiasts love about vintage Seiko: innovation, utility, and understated wearable design, all wrapped in a distinctly 1970s silhouette.

Happy hunting,

Brent 

Condition Report & Contents

Case: The stainless steel case is in good honest condition, showing expected wear from use, including some light scratches, and scuffs, but remains strong overall. Importantly, the original beveled edges are still very strong and well-defined.

Caseback: Displays some wear and scratches from a watchmakers tool, and a soft watchmaker’s numerical engraving is present on the underside of one lug.

Dial & Hands: The original matte black dial and inner rotating bezel are in excellent condition, and vibrant with no significant fading. The inner bezel rotates smoothly without any sticky or stiff spots. All hands are original, and the painted red GMT hand is particularly well preserved, with all paint and lume intact. The original tritium lume is present across markers and hands. The lume plots on the dial are pristine, and beautifully preserved, with all paint and lume extremely well preserved. There is slight lume discolouration at the base of the hour and minute hands, but overall remains attractive and intact.

Crystal: Acrylic (plexi) crystal is in good condition with light surface marks that do not detract from wearability.

Movement: Fully serviced in July 2020. Running on Seiko’s Caliber 6117B automatic movement with GMT functionality and hacking seconds.

Strap: Fitted on a lightly used grey nylon NATO strap—comfortable, practical, and in keeping with the watch’s tool-watch character. 

Specifications

• Reference: 6117-6419

• Year: September 1970

• Case Diameter: 41mm

• Lug-to-Lug: Approx. 45mm – 45.5mm

• Thickness: 13mm – 13.4mm

• Lug Width: 20mm

• Case Material: Stainless Steel

• Crystal: Acrylic

• Dial: Matte black with luminous markers and “Resist” text

• Movement: Seiko Caliber 6117B Automatic (17 jewels, 21,600 bph)

• Functions: GMT (24-hour hand), Date (quickset), Rotating inner 24-hour bezel

• Water Resistance: Originally rated to 70m