Model: Seiko “Thermic” SBET001 / 6C12-0010
Year: 1998
Limited Edition: 500 Pieces
Features:
The Power. First, there was manual winding. Then someone realised you could slap a rotor onto a movement and harness kinetic energy. Quartz and batteries would completely reinvent the wheel - and even that arrangement eventually received an “automatic” upgrade via solar charging. But there is a seldom-explored alternative. Body heat.
The Complications. The Thermic’s impressive functionality isn't just dictated by the unique way in which it harnesses energy. It has a perpetual calendar up its sleeve, as well as automatic power conservation - and a mode selector that allows you to adjust the hours without hacking the second hand. Perfect while travelling - a feature Seiko didn’t reintroduce until the 9F Grand Seiko.
The How. It’s the Seebeck Effect in action. When two different electrical conductors are joined together but maintain a temperature difference, an electromotive force is produced. In short, the Thermic uses the temperature difference between your body heat and the ambient air to generate electricity.
The Cost. Sadly, the Thermic didn’t stick around for long. Only 500 were made before Seiko decided to shut the door on thermally powered watches for good. At the time of its release in 1998, it cost $2,800 - a prohibitively expensive amount even by today’s standards. Convincing consumers to adopt new tech is never easy, but you have to assume the cost played the largest role in the sub-brand’s demise.
The Charger. While it is viable to solely rely on the heat produced by your body, Seiko also provided a charging station that can only be described as a cryogenic chamber for watches
Specifications:
Condition: In very good condition overall. Just serviced. Small marks and hairlines across the case. Original thermal charger. Original buckle.
Scope: No box or papers.
Movement: Seiko Thermally Charged 6C12
Dimensions:
- Case Width: 42.0mm
- Lug to lug: 50.8mm
- Case Thickness: 14.7mm
