King Seiko 5626-7111 – Hi-Beat Automatic (SGP) – from March 1973

This Seiko King Seiko 5626-7111 dates from July 1973 (serial number 37xxxx – first digit = year 1973, second digit = month 7 = July; here clearly July 1973, as the model was exclusively produced in the early/mid-1970s). It belongs to the late classic KS models, which are among the last high-quality dress watches from the gold-plated (SGP – Seiko Gold Plated) era.

The model features the renowned Calibre 5626 Hi-Beat (28,800 A/h), one of the most precise series-produced automatic movements ever manufactured by Daini Seikosha. The 56 movement was the direct counterpart to the Suwa calibres of the Grand Seiko line and is still considered a milestone in Japanese watchmaking.

The watch is very beautiful, but shows signs of wear and the dial is no longer perfect, although it is technically functional. The crystal has scratches. An authentic, honest vintage KS – technically interesting.

Background – King Seiko, Daini vs. Suwa and the significance of the 5626 series

King Seiko was Daini Seikosha's answer to the Grand Seiko models from the Suwa factory. The two factories were in direct internal competition, leading to one of the most innovative development phases in Japanese watchmaking history.

The 56xx Hi-Beat calibers in particular are among the most sophisticated works of this era:

• 28,800 half-oscillations per hour,
• Quick switch for date and day of the week
• very reliable automatic design
• Typical Daini fine adjustment (FS screw adjustment visible on the bridge).

The reference 5626-7111 is one of the elegant “classic tonneau designs” that Daini developed in the early 1970s – flat, elegant and still very wearable today.

Technical data

• Model: Seiko King Seiko 5626-7111
• Caliber: Seiko 5626 (Hi-Beat, 28,800 A/h), automatic, 25 jewels
• Production date: July 1973
• Case: SGP (Seiko Gold Plated), stainless steel case back
• Diameter (excluding crown): approx. 36 mm
• Height: approx. 10.3 mm
• Lug-to-lug: approx. 41.6 mm
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Weight: approx. depending on the strap (leather strap shown here is not original)
• Glass: Acrylic – with signs of wear
• Strap: brown leather strap with lizard pattern
• Features: Date & day of the week with bilingual display, central seconds, automatic winding

Condition

• Dial: patinated, with slight, localized discolorations
• Case: Signs of wear
• Glass: minor scratches present
• Factory: functional
• Crown: original KS signature crown

A good basis for collectors who are looking for a functioning Hi-Beat caliber and want to own a historically important model.

Notes

Warranty (used)

This is a used item. The limitation period for claims based on defects (statutory warranty) is 12 months from delivery.

Notice

As this is a pre-owned watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.