The worlds first production quartz watch was released in December 1969. Throughout the 1970s there was a cycle of rapid development to transform this new technology from a science like project, into a high-end, cutting edge form of haute-horology. 
 
Subsequently, these quartz pieces that gave Seiko so much success, cannibalised not just other brands mechanical pieces, but also Seiko’s. As such these names shifted, with Grand Seiko now being revamped as Grand Quartz, making use of fresh quartz technology.
 
This reference is desirable due to the linear grained textured dial, decagonal bezel, textured case finish and matching textured bracelet. This particular example is from September 1976. 
 
This model was one of the first Grand Quartz watches, which debuted in 1975. A group of 8 Grand Quartz models were released to the market. Six of the eight introductory models were presented in solid 18k gold cases, costing between 460,000 to 1,350,000 Yen. 
The Stainless models were 80,000 Yen. The movement was originally quoted as having a +/- 5 seconds per month variation. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
These watches have long been typecast as a mid to late 1970s quartz watch, dismissed as one of many quartz watches churned out by Seiko in that period. Yet these are not merely a quartz dress piece from the 1970s. They are now appreciated for what they were and are. They were originally very expensive and today we may view that as ridiculous, but this ignores the top-grade engineering, the quality of design, general finish and materials used in construction. 
 
The 1970s had varying tastes and styles, but these unassuming dress pieces, after 50 years, are drawn upon for inspiration when Seiko create modern day Grand Seikos. You can see many similarities in dial finishes, layouts and case shapes. 
 
The dial is completely original and has a snow white base tone which is subtle, yet beautifully executed. The dial is finished to an exceptionally high standard. It has a linear grained finish, which makes this reference stand out.
 There is a chapter ring inside of the bezel piece which has a mirrored finish. There are three-dimensional applied baton hour markers, black painted to the top which matches the hands.
 
The centre of the dial is signed Seiko Grand Quartz, with the Applied polished 3D Seiko logo, and black painted Grand Quartz signing. The lower section of the dial has the applied polished 3D quartz logo. At 3 O’clock, the day and date window is framed by a polished 3D rectangular frame, which has a facetted finish to meet the window itself. The window is a clean white finish with black signing. It has English and Japanese on the day and date.
 
This is the original Hardlex crystal, which is in good condition. It has a slight chip to the edge near 7 O’clock.
 
The crown is original and is made of Stainless Steel. It has the Quartz logo.
The case is made of Stainless Steel and is in good condition. It is a 3-piece case with bezel, centre body and rear of the monocoque movement housing.
The bezel is in good condition and has a polished finish, with light surface scratching. The centre piece of the case has a textured finish to the top which is in great condition. It falls away at each end to integrate into the bracelet. The sides have a polished bevel on the top, falling into a flat polished section, before a larger bevel meeting the rear of the case. The sides have scratching, including some deeper than surface markings.
 
The case back is in very good condition for the age, with light surface scratching. 
The main face has a brushed finish, whilst the side is polished. The battery hatch is in good condition with only slight signs of damage. The movement/model reference is 4843-7001.  The watch is on the model correct bracelet, the XOB-310.
 
The movement is in good condition and is working well, having been serviced and a new battery fitted. It is keeping time to +5 seconds a month.
 
Please see the images as these compliment and aid the description provided below.
 
Dial: 
The dial is completely original and has a snow white base tone which is subtle, yet beautifully executed. The dial is finished to an exceptionally high standard. It has a linear grained finish, which makes this reference stand out.
 There is a chapter ring inside of the bezel piece which has a mirrored finish. There are three-dimensional applied baton hour markers, black painted to the top which matches the hands.
 
The centre of the dial is signed Seiko Grand Quartz, with the Applied polished 3D Seiko logo, and black painted Grand Quartz signing. The lower section of the dial has the applied polished 3D quartz logo. At 3 O’clock, the day and date window is framed by a polished 3D rectangular frame, which has a facetted finish to meet the window itself. The window is a clean white finish with black signing. It has English and Japanese on the day and date.
 
Hands: 
The hands are original and of Index style. They are black painted and are in excellent condition. The central second hand is also original and is in excellent condition. 
 
Glass: 
This is the original Hardlex crystal, which is in good condition. It has a slight chip to the edge near 7 O’clock.
 
Crown: 
The crown is original and is made of Stainless Steel. It has the Quartz logo.
 
Case:
The case is made of Stainless Steel and is in good condition. It is a 3-piece case with bezel, centre body and rear of the monocoque movement housing.
The bezel is in good condition and has a polished finish, with light surface scratching. The centre piece of the case has a textured finish to the top which is in great condition. It falls away at each end to integrate into the bracelet. The sides have a polished bevel on the top, falling into a flat polished section, before a larger bevel meeting the rear of the case. The sides have scratching, including some deeper than surface markings.
 
Caseback:
The case back is in very good condition for the age, with light surface scratching. 
The main face has a brushed finish, whilst the side is polished. The battery hatch is in good condition with only slight signs of damage.
 
It is signed Seiko, with the serial number 690385. It is also signed Water Resistant ST. Steel, Japan J. The movement/model reference is 4843-7001. 
 
Strap: 
The watch is on the model correct bracelet, the XOB-310. This has a brick style centre linkage which is a subtle but beautiful design feature. This also makes the bracelet incredibly comfortable. The bracelet finish is textured, matching the front of the case. 
 
Movement:
The movement is in good condition and is working well, having been serviced and a new battery fitted. It is keeping time to +5 seconds a month.