The Design. Sometimes weird is cool, and in case the four subdials weren’t unique enough, Seiko added a door to the SAWV003. The results are magnificently weird, and I’m all for it. The door actually acts as a giant magnifier, primarily magnifying whatever lies beneath when you swing it open. Seiko gives the example of using it to magnify maps, which leans into the general theme of the watch, but in my opinion, its true function is to evoke Seiko’s unapologetic 1990s approach to design - a time when no design philosophy was too sacred to challenge. Although Seiko has become more reserved in recent years, vintage pieces like this serve as a reminder of their bold spirit.
Towards the Sun. Strange looking but easy to use. If you’re in the northern hemisphere, simply point the “towards the sun” hand at the sun – the position of your hour hand is now North! For the southern hemisphere, you point the “towards the sun” hand at the sun and the position of your 12 o’clock marker is North. I am not a pathfinder, and this is not pathfinding advice.
The Movement. Circular day and date, a monthly moonphase and a “towards the sun” independently programmable hour hand make up the four subdials. The hour markers have been replaced with N, E, S, and W, aiding in navigation with the “towards the sun” dial. The "towards the sun" hand can function as a GMT hand if you prefer, as it can be set independently to the main hour hand.
The Case. Although it may not look like, both the door and the case itself have crystals in them. It's often erroneously thought that once you open the door you have direct access to the hands and dial - don't worry, they are safely kept behind a second layer of crystal!
Specifications:
Condition: In great condition overall. No marks of any real significance.
All of our watches are inspected and verified for authenticity - both inside and out. We have over 15 years of sourcing and collecting rare watches in Japan, which is often considered to be one of the best markets for authentic and fully original vintage watches.
Do you ship globally?
We are based in Japan and regularly ship all over the world. We typically use FedEx and it takes:
3-7 business days to reach North America
3-7 business days to reach Europe
3-7 business days to reach Asia and Oceania.
All of our packages are securely shipped, fully insured, and trackable door-to-door.
What condition are your watches?
Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of the watches we typically sell, the condition varies from watch to watch. However, our photos are high resolution and our descriptions are accurate. You can buy with confidence knowing there won't be any nasty surprises.
If the condition of a watch is ever misrepresented, we would offer a full refund.
Are all of your watches serviced?
Most but not all of our watches are serviced. The "Condition" section of each watch will confirm if the watch has been serviced.
All of our watches are tested by an independent watchmaker - if a service is needed, the watch will be serviced. If a service hasn't been conducted, it's because the watch itself is too new to need a service, or there is evidence of a recent service.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept payment by all major Credit Cards and Wise.com
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 or new), and the import 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?
Our serviced watches are typically tested to their original water resistant specifications, but we would never recommend pushing vintage or neo-vintage watches to their depth limits.
What is your returns policy?
Due to the vintage and neo-vintage nature of most of our watches, we do not offer returns under normal circumstances. All sales should be considered final.
