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Seiko “Motorist” J14108E

Seiko “Motorist” J14108E

£1,170.00 GBP
£1,170.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
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Model: Seiko “Motorist” J14108E

Year: 1960s

Features:

The Functionality. Driving watches aren’t the most obscure purpose-built watches, as that honour surely belongs to space watches built to function in zero gravity, but they’re certainly high on the list. They’re designed to increase legibility while holding a steering wheel - and as niche as that problem might be, the solution undeniably works.

The Design. Driving Watches can suffer from a small psychological hurdle: your brain has to recalibrate to the repositioned numerals. Glance too quickly and an 11 can morph into a 12, simply because it’s in its spot. The Seiko Motorist avoids this confusion by using a sector dial - these guiding lines visually anchor the 3, 6, 9, and 12.

The Angle. There’s a case to be made that this dial layout offers convenience well beyond the steering wheel. When I check the time, I rarely ensure my wrist is parallel to my chest - perhaps I'm just lazy, but my watch is typically angled slightly as I look at the dial. Similarly, I’m not currently wearing the Motorist as I type this, yet I can’t help but notice my wrist position - angled on the keyboard in such a way that I can practically hear the Motorist confidently say “put me in, Coach”.

The Case. The gold plating on the case is a generous 20 microns thick - roughly 20-40 times thicker than what’s typically found on modern watches - which explains why it’s still in such good condition. Even more unusual, the case itself is physically raised from the 12 o’clock side (the 1 o’clock position on a standard watch), further enhancing legibility.

The Rarity. This 1960s J14108E pushed the envelope with its use of accent colours, dial design, case architecture, and Seiko’s perpetually cool retro Motorist typeface. Whether Seiko didn’t sell many, or simply didn’t make many, I couldn’t say - but these are a rare sight, and it’s safe to say you’re unlikely to see another one this year. Or next.

Specifications:

The Condition: In good condition overall. Just serviced. Small swirls and hairlines can be seen on the case. The dial is patinated. 

Scope: No box or papers.

Movement: 19 Jewel Manual Wind

Dimensions:

  • Case Width: 37.5mm
  • Lug to Lug: 37.5mm
  • Case Thickness: 9.6mm
  • Lug Width: 18mm
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        FAQs

        Do you ship globally?

        Absolutely - our watches are regularly shipped all over the world. Shipping typically takes:

        • 4-9 business days to reach North America
        • 4-12 business days to reach Europe
        • 4-12 business days to reach Asia and Oceania.

        All of our packages are securely shipped, fully insured, and trackable door-to-door.

        Do I have to pay customs or taxes?

        It depends on so many factors, including but not limited to; the cost of the watch, the type of watch you've bought (vintage, new, or modified), and the import and tax laws of your country. If you're unsure we recommend checking the import laws that relate to your country before ordering.

        Are your watches water resistant?

        All of our watch mods are tested by our own pressure depth testing equipment, and are guaranteed to resistant water up to 50m of depth. Seiko Originals have varied levels of depth resistance, which will be stated in the description of each watch.

        Can I modify an existing design?

        We welcome all ideas! Get in touch via the Contact Us page and we can let you know the possibility and cost of any potential alterations.

        What is your returns policy?

        Due to the hand-made nature of the Seiko Mods, we offer a 7 day returns period after the watch has been received. The returner must bear the cost of the returns, and the watch must be returned in the same condition as it arrived. We do not offer returns on any bespoke or custom-made watches.

        Due to the vintage nature of the Seiko Originals, returns are considered on a case-by-case basis, as vintage items typically have a no returns policy.

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