Released in January 1966, the Seiko 62MAS ref. 6217-8001 Big Crown solved a problem that its small crowned sibling (released the year prior) had created, as its small crown proved challenging to operate. Today, the 62MAS serves as one of the most iconic Seiko timepieces in the market, with its historical position as the brand's first-ever dive watch. This lineage has since spawned several classic watches, each with its own unique history. Named the Seiko[MA]tic [S]elfdater (where MAS comes from), the 62MAS is powered by Seiko's equally iconic cal. 62. Famed for its clean aesthetic and functional design, the Seiko 62MAS was an incredible dive watch for its time due to its abundance of lume, rotating bezel, and respectable 150m water resistance – just 50m less than Rolex's far more expensive Submariner. Today, the 62MAS Big Crown is considered an incredible find for vintage collectors given its discontinuation in June of 1967, ensuring it is a rare watch, especially when compared to other Seiko timepieces. Offered in like-new condition, this example is a true Seiko collector's dream, with it acting as a time capsule that celebrates how these watches were when they were originally bought and worn by divers and anyone else who needed one.

Watch is in like-new condition. The watch is in immaculate condition, with some light signs of handling and natural aging. Crystal shows some superficial marks, with the most noticable being visible between the center post and date window. Case shows minor signs of surface wear with a couple marks visible on the surfaces. Dial is glossy and shows no surface scratches, only some natural aging on the indexes. The hands appear to have some oxidation or marks near the center post. The caseback retains the original blue protective enamel covering most of its surface. Watch comes on original tropical strap with a slightly oxidized buckle. Watch comes with its original price tag and a vintage Seiko box.

I love Seiko watches and this one has a special place in my heart, being that it is the first dive watch issued by the brand. At 38mm, the watch is far more wearable than the 'Tuna Can' models that superseded it. A testament to its enduring appeal is the release of a replica by the brand, on the occasion of its 55th anniversary.