1970 Seiko Automatic Chronograph 'Notch Case' (Ref. 6139-6000) "Blue Pogue"

While the title of "First Automatic Chronograph" is a heavily disputed claim (multiple watch companies debuted what they claimed as "the first" automatic chronograph in the year 1969), there are many who believe Seiko—and this watch in particular—are the rightful owners of that title. Either way, the Seiko 6139-6000 was indisputably the first automatic chronograph available for purchase in May of 1969 exclusively to the Japanese market.

The Seiko references 6139-600X are commonly nicknamed the “Pogue” in homage to NASA Astronaut Col. Pogue, who wore his personal Seiko 6139-6002 during the NASA Skylab 4 mission in 1974, subsequently making Seiko the first automatic chronograph to be used in space. Pogue purchased the Seiko chronograph from a PX for $71 in 1972 to use during his flight training as NASA Astronauts were not issued their Omega Speedmasters until much closer to the launch dates. Due to Pogue's familiarity with the Seiko chronograph over the Omega Speedmaster, he hid his personal Seiko 6139-6002 in his flight suit before launching into space so that he could use his Seiko in conjunction with his Omega Speedmaster for the duration of the Skylab 4 mission.

This rare "notch-case" model is in remarkable condition, with its deep blue dial, rich "Pepsi" bezel, and original stainless steel bracelet. You'd never know it's over 50 years old just by looking at it – so, here's to another 50 with one of the coolest watches Seiko has ever made.