This report is a work in progress. Image data is still being collected. Check back regularly for updates.

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Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Data Context
• Research Method
• Tips for Exploring this Data
• Top-Line Data Summary
• Production Summary by Year
• Summary and Detail by Model
• Production Detail by Year and Month

Introduction

In 1976 SEIKO wrapped up production of their mechanical world timers, replacing them with a new generation of quartz-powered, digital watches in 1977. Production of this new Digital Generation of SEIKO World Time watches would run from 1977 through at least 1988. It included iconic models, technological firsts and (until recently) a lot of generally undervalued watches.

This generation includes 6 different case designs across 5 major releases. These break out into 13 different model numbers, with 5 unique LCD layouts, at least 7 different dial frames (14 if you count different colors) and at least a dozen different bracelets.

Data Context

The data presented here is intended to assist enthusiasts, owners, collectors and sellers in making educated assumptions about original characteristics and production numbers associated with each model. It is organized to allow ongoing adjustment and addition of data, with all data detail available to anyone interested in cross checking the source information.

With 190 watches now cataloged, and assuming a production of 1,000,000 total watches, we have a margin of error of 7.103%. Despite the high level of statistical accuracy, we are still only looking at somewhere between 0.038% and 0.133% of all produced watches being accounting for in this data set.

Research Method

The dataset used here is derived from images found via internet search engines, across various online sales platforms and from various markets, including the North America, Europe, the Philippines, Malaysia and Japan. This image data is then computer analyzed to generate a base line data table of model and production year information.

With the basic image data processed, metadata information is then appended to each cataloged item, including things like dial codes, dail frame colors, case type, etc. This additional metadata was based on a human review of the images, and prone to (some) error and revision.

Tips for Exploring this Data

Here are some quick tips to make sure you get the most out of this article and its associated data.

Top-Line Data Summary

So here is what the dataset looks like.

Summary by Model

Production Summary by Year

Click on a year in the grid below to scroll to the start of that year in the year/month production detail. Use the TOP button at the bottom right to quickly return to this summary.

Production Detail by Year and Month

WARNING: You won't find any other editorial content from here through to the end of this page. What follows is a detailed list of each cataloged serial number, grouped by year and month, with an accounting of minimum production counts (the highest Serial No-based Production number in each period). Clicking on the Full Serial Number will open a pop-up including photos and watch metadata.