SEIKO 7A28/ 7A38 Chronograph

The year was 1982, and quartz watches were all the rage. Seiko, the Japanese giant at the forefront of quartz-powered timepieces, had just introduced the first analogue quartz Chronograph, powered by the calibre 7A.

7A28 - No Date with white dial

This was quite a revolution as, despite the popularity of quartz, there were no quartz-powered Chronographs other than digital ones. Starting with the 7A28, it evolved into the 7A38 in 1984, adding a day and date window.

7A38 - Day-Date, gold plated with gold dial

A movie star?

Before becoming the 7A38, the original version, the 7A28 was featured in some well-known movies such as James Bond - A View to Kill or Aliens.

Despite many iterations with different case designs and finishes, dial colours, straps, and bracelets, the 7A38's general symmetrical design, with a crown at 8 o’clock and pushers at 2, 4, and 10 o’clock, as well as its features, has remained the same:

• 36mm (approx.) stainless steel case

• Crown at 8 o’clock with pushers at 2, 4 and 10 o’clock

• Chronograph function (analog)

• Day and date complication

• Mineral crystal

• Calibre 7A quartz movement

• Bracelet or strap

A must-have?

As far as well-loved and respected quartz watches go, the SEIKO 7A is up there. Combining vintage looks and interesting technology, it can be a great addition to every collection.