King Seiko 44-2000 1963-1964

In 1963, Seiko introduced the 2nd generation of King Seiko, based on the Daini 44 movement. Only a couple of models were available, the 44-2000 (gold plated) / 44-9990 (stainless steel) and the 4402-8000 (with the date).

In this article, we will focus on the gold plated 1964 King Seiko 44-2000, reference KSK 010.

Presentation

The design of this 44KS is quite minimalist and classic. We have a round shaped case, dauphine hands and metal hour markers. The lugs however look modern with an edge split them in two plans. The watch looks quite big despite its 36 mm diametre, thanks to the thin bezel and the sober dial. This watch was sold with a black leather band and was available in gold plated only.

The dial & hands

The 2000 dial is very sober. The Seiko logo is located under the 12 o’clock marker, as on most Seiko. On the lower half of the dial, we have the wording “King Seiko” in caps and just below, “Diashock 25 jewels”.
As usual, at the very bottom “JAPAN” and the dial reference (2000R AD).
The hour markers are made of golden metal batons, the 12 o’clock one is doubled.
The hour and minute hands are of dauphine type, the second hand is a simple thin one.

The case

The 2000 case is only 36 mm wide but the long lugs gives a feeling of something much bigger.
The inner face of the back has “AGF” engraved, which stands for “All Gold Filled”, this actually means that the case back is gold filled too. The outer face of the back has the early King Seiko seal.
The crystal is a traditional acrylic glass, pressed on the case.
The crown is simply “S” signed.

The movement

This King is fitted with a Seiko 44 25 jewels movement beating at 18,000 bph, . The hacking second feature is allowed by a lever trigger by the stem (see picture). When the crown is pulled, the lever blocks the second wheel.

In conclusion

This King Seiko has a very striking presence on the wrist. The golden colour is quite fair compared to other gold plated watches. A very, very classy watch.