Seiko Type II 4623-8020 - NOS

The watch Here we have a beautiful Seiko Quartz Type II from 1976 in unworn, new old stock condition. It features a stainless steel case with pinstripe dial. The bracelet is at full size and fits up to 19,5 cm. The day can be displayed in Japanese Kanji and English. The case with the protruding lugs is directly borrowed from the 1971 Grand Seiko 5645-7010. Details The Seiko Type II, also known as the Seiko Quartz Type II, is a notable model in the history of quartz watches. Introduced in 1976, it represents Seiko's continued innovation following the success of the original Astron, the world’s first quartz watch. The Type II was part of Seiko's efforts to refine and advance quartz technology, offering improved accuracy and functionality. Distinctive for its sleek design and advanced features, the Seiko Type II was one of the early examples of quartz watches. It showcased Seiko’s commitment to making cutting-edge technology accessible and reliable. The watch's design and precision helped further cement Seiko's reputation as a leader in the quartz revolution, contributing to the broader shift in the watch industry during the quartz crisis. The quartz crisis The quartz crisis was a major turning point in the watch industry during the 1970s and 1980s, driven by the rise of quartz technology. Companies like Seiko led the way, offering watches that were more accurate, more affordable, and easier to maintain than traditional mechanical models. With the launch of the first quartz wristwatch, the Astron, in 1969, Seiko showed the world what quartz could achieve. Swiss watchmakers, known for their mechanical craftsmanship, were slow to react and lost much of their market share. The crisis forced the Swiss industry to restructure and helped shape a future where traditional watchmaking and modern quartz innovation could exist side by side.