Seiko KS 5625-7000 1968-1971

In the late 60’s, Seiko introduced its first automatic King range, based on the 56xx 28,800 bph movement.
In 1969, in the JDM catalog n°1 from Seiko only 3 cases were available, the 7000, 7010 and 8000, with the movements 5621 (time only), 5625 (date only) or 5626 (day & date).

In this article, we will focus on the 1969 Seiko KS 5625-7000, which is, according to me, THE KS56 to have if there would be only one to choose. The original Seiko reference of this watch is 56KAC 010 (700 – 700)

Presentation

The design of this KS56 7000 is something particular, we immediately notice these thick lugs and the strong vertical symmetry of the case. The case is 37 mm width, which was the average size of a Seiko in 1969. The watch was sold with a black leather band and a KS-signed steel buckle.

The dial & hands

The 7000 dial is simple and clear. The day (and date) window is at 3 o’clock. The Seiko logo is located under the 12 o’clock marker and is underlined by the “Automatic” mention. On the lower half of the dial, we have the applied KS symbol, the word Hi-Beat and the Suwa logo. As usual, at the very bottom to the movement reference (5625) and the dial reference (7000T AD).
The hour markers are made of thin 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 all stainless steel 7000 case is made of one single piece as most of the early KS and LM models. The case back has the traditional golden KS medallion. The crown is quite big for an automatic watch but it allows an easy hand winding. It is traditionally positioned at 3 o’clock and the KS letters engraved on it.
On the back we can find the elements found on most of the Seiko with a monobloc case. The serial number of the watch is engraved at the bottom of the back. Later variations of the case have been proposed, based on the same design : 7110, 7111.
The flat glass crystal is glued on a bezel which is held by the pressed outer ring.
We can notice a screw between the lower lugs, it can be unscrewed to access another screw which will trigger the regulator of the balance. The movement can be finetuned this way without taking it out of the case.

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The movement

This King is fitted with a Seiko 5625 movement, displaying the date. On this early model, the date quickset transfer wheel is made of metal and not plastic.
The movement is reliable and easy to service and maintain, parts are easy to find.

In conclusion

This KS 5625-7000 is according to me a must-have. It gathers everything that made the King so popular : a superb case, a efficient movement and a sober dial. When purchasing one, take a special attention to the dial, many of them have their rim in average condition (missing paint, stain…). The golden medallion can be quite worn or even missing.