Vintage Seiko Chronograph ref. 6139-6013 Bruce Lee – 1978, All original, Serviced

Seiko’s automatic chronographs, especially those produced in the 70s, occupy a special place in people’s hearts. So special, in fact, that some enthusiasts have built their entire collections around the fabled cal. 6139 – Seiko’s first self-winding chronograph movement – and its worthy successor, the cal. 6138. And why wouldn’t you? The two movements power some of the brand’s most acclaimed watches, including the Pogue, the Kakume, and the UFO, not to mention the entire Sports 5 Speedtimer line. The one we finally have the pleasure of offering here is among the rarest of the bunch, not to mention one of our all-time favourites.

The ref. 6139-6012 is famous for two reasons. Firstly, it was the first chronograph to incorporate a vertical clutch – a feature many consider one of the hallmarks of a superior automatic chronograph movement. More importantly, however, it was worn by the martial artist, martial arts instructor, actor, director, screenwriter, producer, and philosopher, Bruce Lee. This has made it exceedingly popular among both his loyal followers and avid watch enthusiasts – two groups of people we ourselves belong to.
As our photos will testify, the watch is in superb condition. Its case remains knife-edge sharp and has preserved its original finishing, and its dial shows minimal pitting. Neither the case nor the dial have been refinished or otherwise tampered with, and all internal and external components are original. The cherry on top – it comes outfitted with its rare OEM bracelet. The cal. 6139 inside was just serviced by our in-house watchmaker and is ticking per spec. Dates to 1978.

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