Seiko KS 5626-7040 Chronometer 1970-1971

In the late 60’s, early 70’s, some King Seiko had the “Chronometer Officially Certified” or “Superior Chronometer Officially Certified” mention on their dials. The 5625, 5626, 5245 and 5246 movements were concerned.

After a quite short period, the swiss watchmaking industry took measures to prevent non-swiss movements to be “Chronometer” certified, only the COSC could deliver this certificate.

Presentation

The design of this KS 5626-7040 is in line with the production from Seiko. The case is quite small with its 36 mm diametre. The mix of edges, brushed and polished surfaces gives an impression of complexity.

The dial & hands

The 7040 dial has minute-second-1/5th second scale. The day and date window is at 3 o’clock. The days can be displayed on this one in Kanji or English. Export models might have had a different language combination. The Seiko logo is located under the 12 o’clock marker and is underlined by the “Chronometer Officially Certified” mention. On the lower half of the dial, we have the applied KS symbol and the words Automatic and Hi-Beat. As usual, at the very bottom to the movement reference (5626) and the dial reference.
The hour markers are made of thin metal batons, the 12 o’clock one is doubled.
The hour minute seems quite short, the centre is black. The minute hand is black and quite thin.

The case

The all stainless steel 7040 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, with the chronometer mention. The crown is quite big for an automatic watch but it allows an easy hand winding. It is traditionally positioned at 3 o’clock.
The quite reduced size of the case gives an feeling of thickness and robustness.
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.
The flat glass crystal is glued on a bezel which is held by the pressed outer ring.

The movement

This King is fitted with a Seiko 5626 movement. This “Chronometer” version is, as far as I know, strictly identical to the non Chronometer version. Nothing on the calibre itself identifies it. The 56xx is a very wide family of calibres, replacement parts are very easy to find, except for the negatively notorious day and date transfer wheel.
This said, the movement is reliable and easy to service and maintain.

In conclusion

This KS 5626-7040 is I think the most common “Chronometer” King, it is quite popular amid the Seiko enthusiasts. Its hands are something different, especially compared to usual dauphine ones.
When purchasing one, take a special attention to the dial, many of them have their rim in average condition (missing paint, stain…).

Brand Seiko
ModelKS 5626-7040
Year1968-1971
CalibreSeiko 5626
Jewels25
Rate28,800 bph
Case materialStainless steel
Width36.4 mm
Length42.1 mm
Lugs18 mm
DialWhite
Handstrapezoid
Posted in Watch reviews.

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