Seiko Tomony Tom & Jerry 5000-7000 – Manual Wind – 1970s – Japanese Comic Classic

In the 1970s, Seiko, under its Tomony sub-brand, built a series of character watches that are now among the most sought-after Japanese collectibles beyond the classic model lines. This one features Tom and Jerry on the dial – and a proper mechanical hand-wound movement underneath.

Seiko Tomony and the Character Watches

Tomony was Seiko's brand for watches beyond the classic range, under which character and licensed models were released starting in the early 1970s. The reference 5000-7000 is the most well-known of this series: a round case of about 35 millimeters with a hand-wound movement, which appeared in several dial designs – including Mickey Mouse and, much rarer to find, Tom and Jerry.

Crucial for its collector's value is what is not installed here: no quartz movement, no toy mechanism. It is a regularly manufactured mechanical hand-wound movement from Japanese mass production – the same technology that Seiko used in its adult models at the same time. Winding the crown in the morning operates the same mechanism as in a vintage dress watch.

Design and Character

The cream-colored dial shows the two characters in classic cartoon style, with Arabic hour numerals all around in a playful, hand-drawn looking font. The arrangement follows the logic of character watches of that era: the figure dominates the center of the image, and the time display is subordinate.

The chrome-plated case measures 34.8 mm without the crown, with 40.1 mm lug-to-lug and 11.6 mm height. At 43 grams, the watch is extremely light. It comes with a new navy blue NATO strap with a red and yellow stripe – a combination that picks up on the cartoon character without making it childish. The 18mm lug width allows the character of the watch to be completely changed with a strap change in just one minute.

Condition

The watch is in good, age-appropriate condition. The case shows moderate signs of wear, but the edges are still relatively sharp. The watch runs stably, but as with any mechanical watch from the 1970s, we recommend a service if it is to be worn regularly.

The crystal has a small crack at the 1 o'clock position, but it is not immediately noticeable.

Technical Data

• Brand: Seiko (sub-brand Tomony)
• Reference: 5000-7000
• Motif: Tom & Jerry
• Movement: mechanical hand-wound
• Caliber: Hand-wound caliber 50C
• Jewels: 7
• Case material: chrome-plated
• Diameter without crown: 34.8 mm
• Lug-to-Lug: 40.1 mm
• Height: 11.6 mm
• Lug width: 18 mm
• Weight incl. strap: 43 g
• Dating: 1970s
• Strap: new NATO strap (not original)
• Origin: Japan

For whom?

For collectors of Japanese character watches who know the Tomony series and are looking for the Tom & Jerry version. For anyone who wants a mechanical watch with recognition value and doesn't want another black dial. And as a gift with substance – a watch that you have to wind, and that's precisely why it leaves a lasting impression.

Warranty (used)

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

Note

As this is a used watch, water resistance cannot be guaranteed. To protect the movement, the watch should not come into contact with water or moisture.