Seiko ALBA alarm chronograph Y749-401A (April 1981)

Rare ALBA Alarm Chronograph Y749-401A (1981)

This digital wristwatch from Seiko's subsidiary brand ALBA dates back to 1981 and is a striking example of early 1980s Japanese watch design. It was completely disassembled, cleaned, and fitted with a new battery and case gasket in November 2025. The case itself was deliberately left unpolished and unfinished to preserve the authentic, well-worn character of this timepiece.

The watch is in heavily used but fully functional condition and has the original ALBA stainless steel bracelet.

Technical data

• Reference: Y749-401A
• Serial number: 14xxxx
• Production date: April 1981
• Functions: Time, Alarm, Chronograph, Dual Time, Calendar, Countdown
• Case: Stainless steel / Base: Metal bezel
• Case dimensions: 32.6 × 36.2 mm
• Lug-to-lug: 36.2 mm
• Height: 8.2 mm
• Lug width: 19 mm
• Original stainless steel bracelet with "ALBA" folding clasp
• Movement: Seiko quartz module caliber Y749
• Battery and seal replaced: November 2025

Historical background

The ALBA brand was founded by Seiko in 1979 to appeal to younger target groups with more modern and affordable models – without compromising Seiko's technical quality. ALBA experienced a golden age, particularly in the 1980s, with a multitude of innovative digital and hybrid watches, often utilizing the same quartz modules as Seiko itself.

The Y749 caliber used here is a typical example of Seiko's technological strength at that time: a multifunctional digital movement with alarm, chronograph, stopwatch, dual-time display, and calendar function . Such models were extremely popular in Japan in the early 1980s and reflected the zeitgeist of an era in which Seiko competed with Casio and Citizen for dominance in the digital watch segment.

With its robust stainless steel bracelet, distinctive rectangular case shape and futuristic display design, this ALBA embodies the style and innovative spirit of the early digital era.

Condition and special features

This watch shows clear signs of wear on the case and bezel, indicating decades of use. The display is clearly legible, and all functions work properly. The battery and gasket were replaced in November 2025.

The deliberate preservation of the original condition makes this piece particularly appealing to collectors who appreciate authenticity and patina.

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.