First time Seiko 6309-7049 Buyer

[Senorx]

I already own a Rolex Submariner 16610 and Omega Speedmaster Professional 3570.50. I recently saw a picture of a Seiko 6309 on a Jubilee band and I became intrigued. Seiko has never been on my radar. For the next 48 hours I researched, read articles and watched YouTube videos. I learned what an iconic timepiece it was and how the 6309 movement is a total workhorse. I saw many pictures with so many different types of straps being used and I became hooked. The hunt has begun and I’m looking for my first Seiko ever. I’m currently in the obsessed stage and I don’t want to make an impulse buy. I think I’ve armed myself with info on fake dials, hands and inserts. I understand the 7040 and 7049 variations. I also read about the “Suwa” and “Non-Suwa” dials.

With that said, I’ve settled on wanting a 6309-7049 in the 1977-1980 year range with “Suwa” dial. I want something all original and cleanish. What would I expect to pay for something in clean to near mint condition? Prices are all over the place and I don’t want to get bent over. I figure I would buy a clean timepiece now and pay up front, because it seems the prices are creeping up as the years go by. Your thoughts, opinions and information are greatly appreciated.

[rainier]

Lately I've seen nice, clean, original examples of '77-'81 Suwa dial models go between $300-$700. With most vintage watches, originality and condition determines the increase in price. Personally, I would pay more for the right watch that is all original (hands, dial, bezel, crystal) over anything that has had any replacement parts or cleaning/polishing done.

I've bought and sold a few 6309 7040 and 6309 7049 examples over the years, the last one I picked up, a early 1981 Suwa, I paid $325 (in 2015), and it was all original, no service history, but in very nice shape with minimal wear. At the time, I thought I paid a little too much, but since then I've had it serviced, gaskets and crystal replaced - it's a solid keeper. The 6309 case is very comfortable to wear, it's built like a tank, and I keep it in rotation with my 14060M Sub, DateJust, and various other Seikos in the collection.

I Hope this helps with your search, you should be able to find a nice example, it just takes some patience - good luck!

[Senorx]

I totally agree. I’m holding out for a clean and all original 6309. This is gonna be a keeper for sure. My next purchase is going to be a 14060M 2 Liner.

[Senorx]

Finally found a clean 6309-7049 circa April 1980. Purchased in late June and sent to the wizards at LA Watchwork for full service. She’s all original and runs perfectly now. Loving this 38 year old watch!

[Old Expat Beast]

Congrats. Looks like a great example

[toxicavenger]

Dope watch!

[scarlet knight]

Nice watch and strap!

[blcblc]

Nice one!!

[Styles Bitchley]

Yeah. Super nice! I want one too.


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[the_natural]

Originally Posted by Senorx

Finally found a clean 6309-7049 circa April 1980. Purchased in late June and sent to the wizards at LA Watchwork for full service. She’s all original and runs perfectly now. Loving this 38 year old watch!

Love it, congrats! Who makes the strap?

[Senorx]

Originally Posted by the_natural

Love it, congrats! Who makes the strap?

It’s made by Barton Watch Bands out of Austin, TX. It’s their Elite Silicone band. Super soft and comfy.

[marcopolo05]

Very cool ! Looks so mint

Envoyé de mon ONEPLUS A6003 en utilisant Tapatalk

[Gharddog03]

Very nice. Congrats!

[JimSnyder]

In my opinion, the 6309 70XX references are one of the greatest diving watches ever made. If you want one get it now I would not be disappointed if I was told this is the only watch I could have.

[oldman2005]

Seiko turtle is nice!