Seiko’s rally divers – such as this surprsingely sizable 1971 Seiko 6119-7173 "Rally" automatic dive watch here, on oyster stainless-steel bracelet – were a popular series of 70 meter sport divers made by the Japanese manufacture in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Easily discernible, the rally divers obtained their nickname from the distinctive checkered pattern on its bezel inserts, which resembled a checkered racing flag.
The Seiko "rally" series began with the 6106 models, followed shortly thereafter by the 6119s, with a overlap in production between both. The 6119 duplicated the aesthetic of the 6106 and was meant to improve the design on the 6106 – based on the popularity of the 6106 – and was also produced with numerous new variants. The 6119 on offer here was one of the re-issues of the original highly popular 6106 models.
Of note, the 6106 models were produced sans the “Seiko 5”-signed dial and only came in two variants, unlike the plethora of variants the subsequent 6119 came in.
This rally diver comes on a stainless-steel oyster bracelet, and with leather strap, rugged travel case, and springbar tool.
1971 Seiko 6119-7173 "Rally" Automatic Diver
DIAL: Seiko 5-signed starburst silver dial; quick set day/date - in English/Spanish language variants - at 3 o’clock position works as designed. Baton hour and minute hands maintain their lume, and the second hand retains its vibrant orange color (albeit with some wear).
CASE: Surprisingely sizable-for-the-era stainless-steel case measures 42mm x 46mm - quite sizable for the era - with matching caseback and a rally bezel insert. Case top retains its brushed finish it departed the factory with, half a century ago.
CRYSTAL: Correct Hardlex crystal, scratch-free.
BAND: This rally diver comes on a generic stainless-steel oyster bracelet, with will fit up to an approx. 7.50 inch wrist; it also comes with a brown leather strap.
MOVEMENT: Seiko 6119 automatic movement, manufactured in September 1971.
CROWN: Unsigned recessed stainless-steel crown.
