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Lot #4570

SEIKO CHARIOT 2220-0340 "Pre-Credor" Jade Dial 18k YG

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Introduction

Offered in the 1970s as the pinnacle of Seiko’s horological offerings before they created the Credor line, the Chariot was once the very pinnacle of what Seiko had to offer. Combining impressive horology with luxurious craftsmanship, the Chariot was a thin 18kt yellow gold dress watch with a rather unique 36mm case. Boasting an angular mid-case and lugs, its design is almost octagonal, but with its round Florentine-finish bezel breaking up its angular execution. Identified by its marbled green jade stone dial, this Chariot’s display is elegantly executed and exceedingly rare. Boasting thin sword hands in 18kt yellow gold with white lume, the Chariot is still supremely legible, all while still being a 36mm timepiece that is the embodiment of an elegant and intensely luxurious 1970s dress watch.

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Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Original 18k Gold Pin Buckle

Est. value range

$4,000 – $6,000

The Details

Brand

Seiko

Dimensions

36mm

Model

Chariot

Movement

Manual-wind cal. 2220A

Reference

2220-0340

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

Circa 1970s

Condition

Excellent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Green (Jade stone)

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Boasting a stunning green jade dial, this example's display is rich with colour thanks to the depth of the array of greens that sit within natural jade stone.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Featuring an impressive 36mm 18kt yellow gold construction, this example's case is almost octagonal thanks to the angularity of its mid-case and lugs, but it is broken up by its round bezel and display.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows surface scratches and a couple of small nicks, while the Florentine-style finish on the bezel remains very well defined. The case back retains crisp engravings and stamps. The jade hardstone dial remains near mint, with natural inclusions present, crisp printing, and no cracks or fissures, while the hands remain very clean. It is fitted with a green leather strap and a Seiko yellow gold pin buckle, both remaining in excellent condition.

Our Perspective

An exceedingly rare and rather interesting watch from before Seiko created the Credor line to focus on high-end watches, this timepiece's 18kt yellow gold case and jade stone dial are the epitome of luxury even by today's standards.

Eric Ku

Co-founder