Ricoh Automatic NOS – Original Packaging – Reference 041312AC Japan, approx. late 1960s / early 1970s

Extremely Rare New Old Stock Example with Complete Original Packaging

This Ricoh Automatic is an extraordinary time capsule of Japanese watch history. It is a genuine NOS (New Old Stock) example, stored unworn for decades in its original Ricoh packaging – including the outer cardboard box, original plastic box, and factory protective sticker on the case back.

Watches of this type are now hard to find even in Japan. The fact that an example has been preserved in complete original packaging, with an intact protective sticker and original steel bracelet, makes this watch an absolute collector's rarity.

Historical Context – Ricoh as a Watch Manufacturer

Today, Ricoh is primarily known as a camera and technology manufacturer. Less commonly known is that Ricoh produced high-quality mechanical wristwatches in the 1960s and early 1970s. These models were technically and qualitatively on par with contemporary watches from Seiko, Citizen, or Orient and were aimed at a sophisticated, technically-oriented audience in Japan. [To learn more about the history of Ricoh, check out the blog post on our website and the corresponding YouTube video.]

The automatic Ricoh models, in particular, with integrated steel bracelets and distinctive case shapes, are highly sought after today, as they were produced in relatively small numbers and were often worn daily – NOS examples are consequently extremely rare.

Design & Aesthetics

The case displays the powerful Japanese design language typical of the late 1960s:
a slightly cushion-shaped case, an integrated steel bracelet, and a deep green dial with a subtle texture that shifts between olive and emerald green depending on the light.

The applied gold-colored indices and hands create an elegant contrast and give the watch a high-quality, almost luxurious appearance. Particularly appealing is the Day-Date window with English day display – a classic detail of this era.

Condition & Special Features

The watch is in exceptionally good NOS condition.
The case back still has its original sticker, a clear indication that the watch was never worn daily.

As with almost all NOS watches around 55 years old, there are minimal storage marks (fine micro-scratches on the case or bracelet), which, however, have no impact on function or substance and underline the authentic character of a genuine warehouse find.

The outer cardboard packaging shows age-related rubbing and patina, while the inner plastic box is preserved in almost perfect condition – a combination particularly valued by collectors.

Technology & Measurements (Overview)

Movement

• Mechanical automatic movement
• 21 Jewels
• Proven Japanese mass-produced technology of the late 1960s

Functions

• Hour, minute, central second
• Day-Date display (English)
• Automatic winding

Case

• Stainless steel
• Diameter: approx. 40–41 mm
• Height: approx. 12.5 mm
• Integrated steel bracelet
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Case back: Stainless steel, original protective film present

Weight

• Approx. 91 g including original steel bracelet

Reference

• Ricoh 041312AC

Scope of Delivery

• Watch in NOS condition
• Original Ricoh steel bracelet
• Original Ricoh plastic box
• Original Ricoh cardboard outer packaging

Collector's Value & Classification

Ricoh automatic watches from this period in their original packaging are extremely rare. The combination of:

• genuine NOS condition
• untouched case back
• complete original packaging
• distinctive 1960s design

makes this example a highly attractive collector's item, especially for enthusiasts of Japanese vintage watches beyond the well-known Seiko and Citizen models.

Such pieces appear only sporadically even on the Japanese market – and almost never in this condition.

Warranty (used)

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

Note on Water Resistance

As this is a watch approximately 55 years old, no water resistance can be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.