Introduction
Launched in 1964 to celebrate that year’s Olympics, which were held in Japan, and which Seiko was the official timekeeper of, the Seiko Monopusher Chronograph ref. 5717 and its no-date sibling, the ref. 5719 were launched as Seiko’s first wrist-mounted chronograph. A rather simple chronograph in execution, the two timepieces are operated by aligning the rotating bezel with the minute hand and starting the chronograph via the pusher at 2 o’clock, which allows 60 minutes to be measured. A piece of Seiko heritage extrapolated out into a piece of Olympic heritage too, the ref. 5717 showcases Seiko’s dedication to development while also hinting at their unwavering and rather impressive dedication to progress, for it was only 5 years later that they gave Zenith and the Chronomatic consortium a run for their money in the race to producing the first automatic chronograph, a race whereby Seiko’s starting place began where the ref. 5717 and its sibling the ref. 5719 began.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$500 – $1,000
The Details
Brand
Seiko
Dimensions
38mm
Model
Monopusher
Movement
Automatic cal. 5717
Reference
5717-8970
Bracelet
Stainless steel bracelet
Year
December 1966
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
White
THE DIAL
Offered as the white dial date version, this ref. 5717 features a black rehaut minute scale that then runs out onto this example's black bezel insert, itself a rarity amongst this reference as plain steel bezels were the more popular option.
THE CONSTRUCTION
While made in the 1960s, the ref. 5717 wears with a modern poise on the wrist thanks to its 38mm diameter, thick lugs and appealing stainless steel bracelet.
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 very good overall condition. Case has some moderate signs of wear, with some scratches and marks visible along the surfaces, primarily along the caseback. Black bezel insert has faded along the rim, with some marks also visible on the surface. Dial in very good condition. There are signs of degradation along the edges and where the black track ring meets the dial, as well as various small marks and scratches. Crystal is heavily worn. Watch comes on a later Seiko signed band with 18 links total. It fits a 7" wrist.
Our Perspective
An iconic piece of Seiko history, the ref. 5717 signaled what was to come from Seiko as they stepped into the realm of true horology, a place where they have resided ever since.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
