Seiko Travel Alarm Clock 70s - mechanical hand-wound - black folding case

The same construction type as its cream-colored counterpart, here in black – and featuring a dial whose white ornamental pattern completely changes the character of the watch.

The alarm clock is a Seiko with a mechanical manual-wind movement and alarm function in a round folding case. The dial is marked with SEIKO, the jewel count, and JAPAN.

The travel alarm clock as a category

Folding-case travel alarm clocks were a standard item from the 1960s to the 1980s: robust enough for a suitcase, small enough for a nightstand drawer, and completely independent of a power outlet. The case folds open and serves as a stand; inside are the winding wheels for the movement and the alarm, the regulation, and a push-button to stop the alarm.

Seiko manufactured these alarm clocks in large numbers with varying dial designs. The appeal for collectors lies less in the technology—which remained the same across the series—than in these very dials, which reflect the changing tastes of two decades.

Design

The gold-colored dial features a fine sunburst finish, over which a large white ornament is applied: a stylized floral and vine pattern that occupies the entire center of the dial and clearly follows the design language of the 1970s.

Overlaid are bold black Arabic numerals and a double inner minute track with luminous dots. The hands are coated with luminous material. The result is an alarm clock that looks more like a decorative piece on a bedside table while still fulfilling its function.

The outer shell of the folding case is finished in matte black with a fine grain, while the inner case is gold-colored.

Dating

The alarm clock bears no serial number or date of manufacture. Design, dial decoration, and movement execution place it in the 1970s.

Condition

The alarm clock is running. The dial is well-preserved, the ornament is complete, the hands are undamaged, and the luminous material is present.

The signs of aging on this specimen are pronounced and should be clearly noted: the gold-colored rim around the dial shows surface abrasion, discoloration, and localized corrosion; the coating is worn through in several places. The black outer shell shows scratches and dirt. The glass shows signs of use. The hinge and stand function work properly.

If you are looking for a flawless piece, the cream-colored counterpart is a better choice. If you want a functional mechanical alarm clock with visible history, you can get it here at an appropriate price.

The actual condition is shown unretouched in the product photos.

Technical Data

• Brand: Seiko
• Type: Travel alarm clock in folding case
• Movement: Mechanical manual wind with alarm function
• Functions: Hour, minute, second, alarm, alarm stop function
• Case: Metal with black grained outer shell, gold-colored inner case
• Width: approx. 7.5 cm
• Depth: approx. 3.7 cm
• Dial diameter: approx. 6.1 cm
• Weight: 177 g
• Dial: Gold-colored with white ornamental decor, luminous hands
• Dating: 1970s
• Origin: Japan

For whom?

For buyers looking for a functional mechanical alarm clock who accept signs of wear as part of the item. For collectors of 1970s Japanese dial decorations. And as an affordable entry into mechanical horology beyond the wrist.

Warranty (used)

This is a used item. The limitation period for claims for defects under the statutory warranty is 12 months from delivery. The condition of the case and bezel described above is agreed upon as the quality of the item. For mechanical alarm clocks of this age, timekeeping accuracy is not a guaranteed feature.

Note on water resistance

The alarm clock is not waterproof. It must not be exposed to water or moisture.