1 17

Seiko “Sunshine” 85899 Alpinist

Seiko “Sunshine” 85899 Alpinist

£590.00 GBP
£590.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Model: Seiko “Sunshine” 85899 Alpinist

Year: January 1964

Features:

The Origin. In 1956, Chiharu Igaya made Japanese history by winning silver in the men’s slalom - Japan’s first-ever Winter Olympic medal. This achievement sparked a boom in skiing and winter sports across Japan, prompting Seiko to create a rugged and sporty option: the Laurel Alpinist. With its strong lume, high-contrast dial, and mountain-shaped indices, it was a solid, sporty option for enthusiasts. 

The Variant. Produced in the mid-1960s, legally speaking, the 85899 is an Alpinist. It says so on the dial in the classic typography we all know and love. But with its gold-plated case and applied markers, it’s almost certainly the dressiest Alpinist ever produced. But you just can’t tame that rugged spirit, as high-contrast orange lume peeks through the golden facade.

The Design. Over on Fratello, Tomas Rosputinsky called this his Sunshine Alpinist, and I’m going to borrow that nickname. As the light bounces off the hands and indices, a warm glow is created on the silver sunburst dial. It’s an effect I recently encountered on the SBGA473 - officially nicknamed the Sunrise by Grand Seiko - so Rosputinsky’s nickname feels entirely appropriate.

The Discontinuation. Despite their visual appeal, the early Alpinists didn’t become major commercial success and the line would eventually be discontinued. But as everyone knows, you can’t kill an idea - fast forward 30 years, and the SCVF line would propel the Alpinist name to heights Seiko could never have imagined.

Specifications:

Condition: In very good condition overall. Just serviced. Signs of aging and wear across the watch, but impressively well preserved for its age. Aftermarket strap and buckle. 

Scope: No box or papers

Movement: Seiko 851 Manual Wind

Dimensions:

  • Case Width: 35.2mm
  • Lug to Lug: 42.4mm
  • Case Thickness: 10.1mm
  • Lug Width: 18mm
View full details

FAQs

Are your watches authentic?

Everything we sell is 100% authentic.

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.

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

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.

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.

See more...