Seiko Electronic EL-370 Ref. 3702-7000 - (November 1970)

Description

This Seiko Electronic EL-370 dates from the early 1970s and represents an exciting transitional phase in watchmaking: Seiko began integrating electronic components into mechanical movements before the quartz revolution began a few years later.

The model 3702-7000 belongs to the Seiko EL-370 series, which was produced between 1969 and 1972. The abbreviation "EL" stands for Electronic , while the number 370 refers to the in-house caliber. The EL-370 series was Seiko's second major step towards fully electronic timekeeping after the "Elnix" line.

Technically, this watch uses an electromechanical balance wheel movement : a small electric motor drives the balance wheel via a coil – a design that bridges the gap between traditional mechanics and modern electronics. This technology was only manufactured for a few years and is now considered a rarity of the transitional generation .

The example shown here impresses with its barrel-shaped stainless steel case , a typical design of the early 1970s. The silver-white dial with applied indices, linear minute track, and clear date display at 3 o'clock conveys the functional, technical style of this era.

Technical data

• Manufacturer: Seiko (Japan)
• Model: Electronic EL-370 Ref. 3702-7000
• Caliber: Seiko 3702 – electromechanical movement with transistor control
• Movement: Battery-powered balance wheel system (not a quartz watch)
• Functions: Hour, minute, second, date
• Date of manufacture: November 1970
• Origin: Japan
• Case: Stainless steel, brushed, tonneau-shaped
• Glass: Acrylic/Plexiglas (slightly curved)
• Dimensions: 38 × 43 mm
• Height: 12.3 mm
• Lug-to-lug: 42.5 mm
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Bracelet: Original Seiko stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp
• Weight: approx. 101 g (including strap)
• Condition: Exceptionally good, well-maintained vintage condition with only minimal signs of wear, new battery, fully functional.

Historical background

The EL-370 series was Seiko's attempt to combine the precision of electronic components with the aesthetics of mechanical movements – even before the breakthrough of quartz technology (Astron 35SQ 1969).

These models were only produced for a short time, as technological advances quickly rendered the hybrid solutions obsolete. As a result, well-preserved examples, especially those with their original dial and working movement, are highly sought after today.

The design – angular, futuristic, with a pronounced case edge – reflects the style of early Japanese industrial design. The movement itself is considered technically sophisticated and was an important intermediate step on the path from classic mechanical movements to modern electronics.

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.