1971 Seiko Diver (Ref. 6105-8110) “Captain Willard”

Although they may not be the most luxurious, Seiko watches are loved by collectors both at the entry-level and by the most decerning collector with a cult-like following. There is a specific sense of satisfaction that comes from wearing a Seiko that you are a part of a long lineage of excellent watchmaking and extreme attention to detail in a resilient fashion across the range of Seiko Timepieces. 

The Seiko 6105-8110 series replaced Seiko’s original professional Diver, the 62MAS, in 1968 and was produced until the year 1977. The 6105-8110 was the first Seiko Diver to use an asymmetrical case and integrated crown guards which can still be seen in the modern Seiko Professional Divers today which makes the 6105 an icon. If you have ever owned a vintage Seiko Diver then you will know that the build quality and finishing of the Seiko 6105-8110 is exceptional, and without a doubt definitely on par with dive watches of the same period, like the Omega Seamaster 300 and the Rolex Submariner. 

The Seiko 6105 measures 44mm and came on a rubber dive strap, although robust and solidly built, the watch when on the wrist doesn’t wear bulky or oversized. The 6105 is powered by the Seiko caliber 6105B, a 17 jewel self-winding movement which is hackable but does not support hand winding, much like the variants that would follow it in the future. The dial of the 6105 is no-nonsense and simple. The largely applied indices that are filled with lume surrounded by a white and visible minute track which pairs perfectly with a handset that allows for an easy read of the time at a glance even in low light conditions adding to the tool like build and feel.

The Seiko 6105 is famous for its presence in the 1979 Francis Coppola film Apocalypse Now as Martin Sheen’s character, Captain Willard can be seen wearing one all throughout the film.  Being true to detail the Seiko 6105 was a watch that was commonly seen on the wrist of soldiers during the Vietnam War as it was sold in Military PX’s and while not the most inexpensive watch it was certainly less expensive than a Rolex Submariner and possessed the same tool like quality and dependability of an Automatic movement.