SOLD: Vintage SEIKO Snowflake Dial 4803-8010 (1976)

[Old Expat Beast]

Vintage SEIKO Snowflake Dial 4803-8010 (1976)


The Seiko 48x3 calibre was a high-end quartz movement offered in Grand Quartz, King Quartz and regular Seiko Quartz watches in the 1970s Japan Domestic Market (JDM). Priced at 50,000 yen in the 1977 JDM Seiko catalog, and rated at -/+ 15 secs per month, this 4803-8010 was slightly more affordable than the equivalent GQ 4843-8030 (70,000 yen, rated -/+ 5 secs per month) and the KQ4823-8010 (58,000 yen, rated -/+ 10 secs per month), although its early Snowflake dial and beautiful “dipped” black lacquer hands show that no corners were cut in its production.

I timed this piece over the last six months, and it gained a total of 31 seconds, so it’s far outperforming its original specs in that regard. A new two-year battery has just been installed.


Condition

Overall condition is excellent, with just a couple of marks on the caseback from battery changes. The original factory case finishing is still well defined, and the dial and hands look perfect, with applied markers, Seiko and quartz crystal logo and day/date frame still clean and bright.

Quick-set day and date still functions as it should, with a choice of English or Japanese Kanji days (with the usual Seiko blue Saturday and red Sunday).

The original full-length adjustable bracelet (XGA 480) is also in great shape, with firmly closing clasp, and the case will take a leather strap if preferred.


Facts & Figures

Production date: October 1976.
Case width: 36mm.
Height: 10mm.
Strap width: 19mm.
Movt: 4803 quartz with quickset day/date.
Crystal: Hardlex.




Price is US$380 plus DHL shipping, which generally takes less than 48 hours to the USA and Europe.

Bank wire, Wise.com or Paypal with the family & friends option are all fine.

Please send a PM if you’re interested. Questions are welcome, and will be answered asap.

Thank you for looking