King Seiko Vanac 5626-7160 (October 1972)

This rare King Seiko Vanac (Ref. 5626-7160) dates from October 1972 and is one of the most fascinating designs of the late King Seiko era. The Vanac line was Seiko's answer to the desire for more fashionable extravagance and architectural sophistication in the upper class of the 1970s – a deliberate break with the conservative elegance of the classic King Seiko models.

This particular example is in outstanding original condition , completely unpolished with a sharp-edged case , clear bevels, and the rare, intact original multi-faceted crystal . The original bracelet with the "Vanac" signature is tight, with virtually no stretch, and the original crown with the KS logo completes the impressive state of preservation.

The dial presents a deep metallic green with radial sunburst finish , combined with the green ‘Vanac’ lettering and applied indices – a color spectrum that shifts between emerald and olive depending on the light.

Inside, the highly precise Seiko caliber 5626A with 25 jewels , bidirectional winding, hacking seconds, and quick-set day/date is at work. The movement runs smoothly, the date function changes correctly, and the bilingual display (Japanese/English) is fully functional.

Historical background to the Vanac series

The King Seiko Vanac series was sold exclusively in the Japanese market between 1971 and 1974 and was the design-oriented top line within the King Seiko family, manufactured in the Daini Seikosha factory .
The following were characteristic:

• avant-garde housing designs with pronounced chamfers and architectural depth,
• brightly colored, sometimes metallic shimmering dials,
• multi-sided ground (faceted) glasses,
• and the combination of classic watchmaking craftsmanship with fashionable courage.

The Vanac models were intended to appeal to a younger, design-conscious target group – “King Seiko with attitude” – but remained rare due to the high production costs and the parallel development of Grand Seiko.

Since Seiko's relaunch of the "King Seiko" series in 2024 , which strongly references the early 56KS models in design and proportions, the original Vanac references (5626-7160, 5626-7170, 5626-7190) have experienced a huge increase in demand. In particular, well-preserved green models are now among the most sought-after King Seiko collector's watches worldwide.

Technical data

• Reference: 5626-7160
• Caliber: 5626A (automatic, 25 jewels, 28,800 A/h, hacking seconds, bidirectional winding)
• Year of birth: October 1972 (Daini Seikosha)
• Diameter (excluding crown): 36 mm
• Height (including glass): approx. 13 mm
• Lug-to-lug: approx. 40 mm
• Weight (including original strap): 93 g
• Glass: faceted Hardlex (original)
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Functions: Day/Date (bilingual Japanese/English)
• Waterproof rating: originally "Water Resistant", now without guarantee

Condition

Almost exceptional: unpolished, original finishes on case and bracelet, crystal in excellent condition, dial and hands original and flawless. Technically perfect, runs precisely.

Collector's valuation

This King Seiko Vanac 5626-7160 is a prime example of that brief but artistically fascinating phase of Japanese watchmaking. The interplay of modernist design, technical sophistication, and excellent condition makes it a top collector's item with significant potential for appreciation.

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.