Seiko 5740-0080 Lord Marvel Pocket Watch

KMII · 2017-11-18T11:19:24Z

KMII showcases his Seiko 5740-0080 Lord Marvel, a vintage 36,000 vph pocket watch. Explore this rare high-beat timepiece and its unique design.

KMII

WPS member · Seiko forum

17 replies4825 views2 photos

KMII proudly presents his Seiko 5740-0080 Lord Marvel pocket watch, a rare example of a high-beat movement in a form factor largely outmoded by the 1960s. His post celebrates the unique appeal of this 36,000 vph timepiece, adding to a growing appreciation for pocket watches within the community.

It seems that today pocket watches tend to have a coming out at Puristspro - with Mike H earlier posting a wonderful thread on his collection (here: www.watchprosite.com
for his thread). So I decided to join in in a humble fashion.

Watches with a beat rate of 36.000vph started entering serial production in the 1960s (compiled a preliminary list of such efforts here: http://www.watchprosite.com/horological-meandering/-span-style-color-gray--horological-meandering--span-overview-of-hi-beat-watches-and-calibres--contributions-highly-welcome/17.1163336.9159171/0/ showing how this topic occupies me). At the same time the era of the pocket watch was largely over by then, with the odd piece - haute horlogerie or otherwise - still being in production but with little cutting edge technology entering the area.

So when I found out that there is in fact at least one pocket watch, with the - to my ears - pleasant frenetic 36.000vph beat rate, I had to have it.

Enter my Seiko 5740-0080 Lord Marvel from February 1976. A Suwa manufactured piece, powered by Seiko's first 36.000vph movement - the 23 jewel 5740C.

Conservatively sized for a pocket watch - at 38mm - it sports a relatively under the radar, clean design. The dial has a fine grained texture, not unlike the one found in the current Grand Seiko SBGR305. The Roman numerals - like the brand name - are printed.

The other interesting detail is the crown, which looks and feels quite different.

The piece is my now third pocket one - following a Longines pocket watch I got for my birthday (here: www.watchprosite.com
for details) and my Minerva Ref. 1402 1/100ths of a minute stopwatch (here: www.watchprosite.com
for more).

Unlike Mike H, I have not gotten around to chains and pouches just yet, so these have all lacked use so far. But this is but a temporary state, to be addressed imminently. That will also result in more, better pictures

Thanks for viewing and wishing you a great weekend!

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGR305

The SBGR305 is a distinctive offering within the Horological Meandering collection, notable for its specific material application and design elements that set it apart from standard production models. This reference often appeals to collectors seeking a piece that combines robust construction with a refined aesthetic, reflecting the brand's commitment to precision and finish. It represents a particular moment in the brand's evolution, showcasing a blend of traditional watchmaking principles and contemporary material choices.

This model features a case crafted from high-intensity titanium, providing both durability and a lighter weight compared to steel counterparts. The case measures 40mm in diameter, housing an automatic mechanical movement, the Caliber 9S68. This movement offers a power reserve of 72 hours, ensuring reliable performance over an extended period. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, known for its scratch resistance and clarity.

The SBGR305 holds relevance for collectors interested in the brand's use of advanced materials and its dedication to mechanical excellence. Its titanium construction offers a different wearing experience and visual character compared to stainless steel or precious metal versions. The watch appeals to those who appreciate a blend of technical specifications and understated design, making it a noteworthy piece within a broader collection.

Specifications

Caliber: 9S68

Case: High-intensity titanium

Diameter: 40mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 10 bar

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Seiko 5740-0080 Lord Marvel is notable for housing Seiko's first 36,000 vph movement, the 23-jewel 5740C, making it a rare high-beat pocket watch from 1976.
The pocket watch features a conservatively sized 38mm case and a clean design with a fine-grained dial texture, reminiscent of modern Grand Seiko models like the SBGR305.
The author expresses a desire to acquire chains and pouches to properly use his pocket watches, indicating an intent to integrate them into his daily life.
Another collector shares images of a Bell & Ross minute repeater pocket watch, highlighting the continued presence of haute horlogerie in this traditional form factor.

The Discussion

Mike H

Nov 18, 2017

...but indeed you must give them wrist time, LOL, I mean you must use them but for that it obviously require at least a chain and why not a bespoke etui ! Best, Mike

KMII

Nov 18, 2017

Thanks for the kind words, Mike!

KMII

Nov 18, 2017

Maybe a pocket smartwatch? On a serious note, would be fun, to be honest. Diversity cannot harm Agree on the graining of the dial - definitely a feature!

nomadgiles

Nov 19, 2017

and a great high-beater to the collection! All the best. G.

KMII

Nov 19, 2017

That's not the one we were discussing, though. That one is yet to arrive

KMII

Nov 19, 2017

But the choices at the moment are limited, I guess Thanks for digging these out, Alkiro!

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Seiko forum with 17 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

About the Horological Meandering Ref. SBGR305

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum