Vintage Seiko Chronograph ref. 6139-6002 Blue Pogue with 70m Resist dial, 1971, Serviced

The ref. 6139-6002 is fascinating in more ways than one.
Nicknamed The Pogue, the model was famously worn by Colonel William Pogue on the 1973′ Skylab 4 space mission. He took it with him on his own accord, without authorization from NASA, and wore it on his main hand while delegating his NASA-approved Speedmaster to his off-hand. (That would make The Pogue the first automatic chronograph wristwatch worn in space, in case you’re wondering.)
What’s more, as if its backstory wasn’t cool enough in itself, the 6139-6002 is also powered by Seiko’s first self-winding chronograph movement, which made its debut around the same time as Zenith’s El Primero after a year-long competition over creating the first automatic chronograph.
Unfortunately, finding an original 6139-6002 nowadays has proved nearly impossible, as most examples out there are either redialed, feature unoriginal parts, or have been polished beyond recognition. Even if an authentic one does pop up, it’s usually in pretty rough shape.
The example on offer here, however, is one of the exceptions.
As indicated by the “Water 70m Resist” script on the dial, this watch dates to somewhere between 1970 and 1972. The serial number further narrows down its date of manufacture to August of 1971 – towards the end of this variation’s production run. The case isn’t notched above the bezel, which is consistent with its year of manufacture and confirms that neither the case, caseback, or dial have been replaced. The latter is in excellent condition and showcases a balanced patina, while the bezel retains all of its original color – a testament to its authenticity. What’s more, the case is crisp and sharp and has never been polished, and the chronograph pushers and crown are correct to the model. Remarkably, even the inner bezel is in full working order!

The watch was just serviced in 02.2023 by our in-house watchmaker and is ticking confidently. It comes outfitted with a quality aftermarket replacement bracelet.

Covered by a limited warranty of 1 year, starting on the date of purchase.