King Seiko VANAC (July 1973) - green textured dial, Ref. 5626-7230T, original steel bracelet

This King Seiko VANAC from July 1973 is a prime example of how Seiko uncompromisingly brought together design, technology, and the spirit of the times in the early 1970s. The VANAC models intentionally represent a break from classic restraint within the King Seiko line – they are edgy, colorful, architectural, and unmistakably "70s." This very distinctiveness makes them one of the most sought-after vintage series from Seiko today.

The Dial – The True Heart

The highlight is the rare green dial with horizontal texture, which shimmers between dark forest green, petrol, and almost black depending on the light. This lively surface structure gives the watch enormous depth and ensures that it constantly looks different on the wrist.

The VANAC lettering in turquoise blue creates an exciting contrast to the dark base color and is one of the iconic distinguishing features of the series. The overall picture is complemented by:

• applied, angular indices, partly with gold-colored accents
• faceted hour and minute hands with clear lines
• a framed day-date display, functionally integrated without disturbing the design

In summary, this is a dial that cannot be called "neutral" – but rather consciously expressive, bold, and precisely why it is so sought after today.

Case & Crystal – 1970s Architecture

The case follows the TV-screen or cushion design typical of VANAC: broad surfaces, sharp edges, clear geometry. The combination of the steel-colored case body and the gold-colored bezel emphasizes the sporty-elegant character and gives the watch its striking two-tone look.

A special detail is the nine-faceted crystal, which refracts light and further enhances the architectural impression. On this particular piece, the crystal is only slightly nicked, overall very harmonious and absolutely appropriate for its age – especially considering that this very crystal is one of the most sensitive and difficult-to-replace VANAC features.

Technology & Classification within King Seiko

Inside, an automatic Seiko movement from the 56xx family with day-date function operates – a robust, proven construction from the heyday of mechanical Seiko production.

Historically, King Seiko is inextricably linked with the internal competition between Daini Seikosha and Suwa Seikosha. This rivalry was one of the central drivers for quality, precision, and design innovation and ran parallel to the development of the early Grand Seiko models. The VANAC series represents the moment when King Seiko consciously embarked on a modern, progressive path – technically high-quality, but radically different in design from earlier, more classic KS models.

VANAC Today – Why Prices Have Increased Significantly

The revival of the VANAC name by Seiko in recent times has massively boosted interest in the historical originals. The modern reissue with a new high-performance movement has brought the original VANAC models back into the focus of many collectors.

The result:

• rising demand for unmodified originals,
• a significant price increase, especially in Japan,
• well-preserved examples there – depending on condition, originality, and reference – reach price levels in the four-figure EUR range.

Particularly variants with colored or textured dials, original bracelet, and good crystal are among the most sought-after versions.

Technical Data & Dimensions

• Model: King Seiko VANAC
• Dating: July 1973
• Reference / Dial Code: 5626-7230T
• Movement: Automatic, Day-Date
• Crystal: nine-faceted (slightly nicked)
• Bracelet: Original steel bracelet with VANAC clasp
  for wrist circumference up to approx. 17.5 cm

Dimensions

• Weight: 96 g (incl. original steel bracelet)
• Case Width: approx. 30 mm (without crown)
• Lug-to-Lug: 42.2 mm
• Height: 12.1 mm
• Lug Width: 18 mm

This King Seiko VANAC is not an "unassuming vintage watch," but a deliberate design statement from the golden age of Japanese watchmaking. For collectors who not only accept but celebrate the 1970s, it is one of the most exciting King Seiko models ever.

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

Note
As this is a used watch, no water resistance can be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.