Seiko
1974 Seiko Chronograph (Ref. 6139-6005) "Blue Pogue"
The first automatic chronograph is a heavily disputed claim as multiple watch companies debuted what they claimed as "the first" automatic chronograph in the year 1969. However, The Seiko 6139-6000 was the first automatic chronograph that was available for purchase in May of 1969 exclusively to the Japanese market. Not only was the ref. 6139 one of the first production automatic chronograph but the watch also features a quickset day and date complication that is operated through the pushing of the button style crown.
The Seiko references 6139-600X are commonly nicknamed the “Pogue”. In 1973, NASA Astronaut Col. Pogue wore his personal Seiko 6139-6002 during the NASA Skylab 4 mission, 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.
(Col. Pogue during the Skylab 4 mission, wearing his personal Seiko 6139-6002 on his left wrist and his NASA issued Omega Speedmaster on his right)
| Stock # | SKO61396005-2 | |
| Brand | Seiko | |
| Style | Automatic Chronograph | |
| Model | 6139-6005 | |
| Serial | 46XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Blue | |
| Millimeters | 45 | |
| Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The excellent case retains strong geometry and honest signs of light use. The "Pepsi" tachymeter bezel has achieved a desirable fade and remains in overall excellent condition. The case retains its original button crown and pump pushers. The case back features all of its original factory markings in crisp and clean condition. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte dial blue is in exceptional condition, showing no major signs of age, there is subtle spotting in between the 7 and 8 o'clock markers that is only visible under magnification. The inner rotating disc has faded to a handsome light grey/blue coloration which gives the dial a handsome contrast and retains its lume triangle at the 12 o'clock position. The lume plots all remain fully intact when inspected under U.V. light. and have aged to a dark grey patina. The original hands have aged slightly lighter than the dial which is common.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch running and functioning, previous service history is unknown.