Seiko Champion

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Vintage Seiko Champion Calendar 860 1964
J15017 - Manual Wind
€300,00 EUR

Seiko Champion Range

The Seiko Champion range, introduced in the early 1960s, marked Seiko's entry-level offering. Known for their hand-wound movements, these watches came with or without a date function. Initially designed with a classic and elegant aesthetic, the collection evolved to include sportier models, such as the Champion Calendar, featuring water resistance capabilities from around 1963 onward.

First Generation (1962–1963)

During its initial phase, the Seiko Champion Watches featured sophisticated models with slim, lightweight cases crafted from stainless steel or gold-plated brass. These cases adhered to the Jxxxxx naming convention and housed the Seikosha 54 movement, available in two variations:

  • Champion Calendar: With date functionality.
  • Champion: Without date functionality.

Second Generation (1963)

Seiko introduced the next generation of Vintage Seiko Champion watches in 1963, powered by the advanced Seikosha 850/860 movement family. These models were renamed as follows:

  • Champion 850: Standard version.
  • Champion Calendar 860: Date-equipped version.

Case materials expanded to include chromed brass, with stainless steel options available for the Calendar 860. Gold-plated versions remained popular, while dial colors ranged from silver and champagne to black.

A notable addition to this series was the Seiko Champion Alpinist, which replaced the Laurel Alpinist, appealing to adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. Distinctive features included “SW”-marked crowns, signifying Seiko Waterproof certification.

Late models (>1964)

By 1964, Seiko streamlined the Champion lineup, focusing exclusively on the Calendar models. These later watches utilized the newly renamed 7622 caliber (formerly the 860) and adopted the 7622-xxxx naming convention. The range was simplified, offering only a few case designs, all fitted with classic Dauphine hands.

The Seiko Champion range remains a significant chapter in Seiko's history, blending timeless elegance with practical innovations that paved the way for future collections.