A Very Blue Watch

Seiko 6119-6040: Manufactured June 1968

In colour symbolism light blue is peaceful while dark blue represents depth and power. We shouldn’t be surprised that a watch from the 60’s, an era of progressive change, has both.

Actually, this watch has a bit more as well, because a shimmering, almost magical, sunburst effect is also a feature. If you check out the photos below you will see what I am talking about.

The dial is a very dark blue with an interesting sunburst that has hints of emerald green about it. The sunburst shimmers and curves it’s way around the dial as you change the angle of the watch. 

The blue theme continues on the hour indices with a central stripe that is a lighter blue, a colour I would describe as French Blue, just like you would find on vintage Renault rally cars. The blue stripes contrast very nicely with the white chapter ring, giving a nautical vibe to the watch. 

That chapter ring is made of plastic which has probably yellowed a bit after 50 years and reminds me of vintage bakelite plastic with its matte appearance.

The blue theme continues on the hands where faceted silver pencil hands have a subtle French Blue stripe down the centre.

A Seiko Casing Parts List printed in 1978 listed all models with the exception of JDM (Japan Domestic Market) watches. Amongst all the 6119 models there was no 6119-6040. That leads me to deduce that this was a watch manufactured just for the Japanese market, and might explain its comparative rarity.

One thing is certain - this watch doesn’t give me “the blues”, and in fact brings a delighted smile to my face each time I put it on my wrist.