Among Seiko’s many milestones, few carry the quiet authority of the 62MAS — the watch that started it all. Manufactured in March 1967, this example represents the genesis of Seiko’s professional dive lineage, a timepiece that bridged Japan’s post-war precision with the growing romance of underwater exploration.

The 62MAS (ref. 6217-8001) was Seiko’s first professional diver, the watch that set the blueprint for every Seiko that followed — from the 6105 “Willard” to the modern Prospex line. Its 150m water resistance, screw-down case back, and robust stainless-steel construction were revolutionary for the era. This March ’67 watch hails from the early production run, a period collectors prize for its design purity and subtle variations—the smaller crown, lower bezel profile, and case-back engraving that mark it as one of the originals.

The grey-green sunburst dial radiates a subdued confidence, its applied markers bordered in chrome and filled with aged lume that has mellowed to a warm, creamy tone. The hands, with their distinctive rectangular lume pip on the sweep second, remain unmistakably Seiko — purposeful, legible, and timeless.

The 37mm case, with its sweeping lugs and balanced proportions, wears beautifully on the wrist. It’s slimmer than a Submariner, yet every bit as capable. From the side, the domed crystal and bi-directional bezel catch the light with vintage charm, while the signed 3 o’clock crown reminds you this was Seiko’s first professional diver to bear its own name. The bezel shows some fading on its inner edge, particularly between the 20- and 45-minute markers, almost certainly from years of being adjusted. The luminous pip is still present and has also faded to a creamy colour consistent with the rest of the lume. Under ultraviolet light, it glows a vibrant green, but as you would expect given the age of the lume, it fades quickly.

Fitted with a replica “Uncle” waffle strap, this watch channels the spirit of the original 1960s diver aesthetic. The 19mm rubber strap, embossed with the “UNCLE” logo, offers both comfort and authenticity — a tactile link to the era when Seiko’s divers were tools for adventure, not just style statements.

Inside beats the 6217 automatic movement, a 17-jewel engine running at 18,000bph. It’s simple, reliable, and emblematic of Seiko’s engineering ethos — a movement built for endurance rather than embellishment.

The 62MAS is the Ur-diver, the patriarch of Seiko’s underwater family. Every subsequent model — from the 6159 Tuna to the modern MM300 — owes its DNA to this watch. It’s not just a collectable; it’s a cornerstone of horological history.

Collectors prize early examples like this one for their originality and honest wear. The patina, the softened lume, and the case back tell a story of decades lived, not decades stored.

This March 1967 Seiko 62MAS is not just a watch — it’s a piece of Seiko’s soul. It embodies the optimism of the 1960s, the precision of Japanese engineering, and the enduring allure of the sea.

As the we might say: “It’s the watch that taught Seiko how to dive — and taught collectors how to dream.”

We work hard to ensure you are pleased with your purchase, both before and after the sale. Contact us to request any additional information.

Dispatch:

We aim to dispatch items within 1-2 days receipt of payment.

The delivery method can vary depending on the value of the watch. All watches are sent fully insured usually using UPS.

All watches sold without an original box will still be dispatched with a high quality presentation box.

Warranty

All timepieces purchased from us come with a guarantee of authenticity and our 12-month time-keeping warranty. Please note that accidental damage or damage to the item resulting from third-party repairs, improper handling, or liquid damage will void our warranty. We do not guarantee any of our watches to be waterproof.