Vintage
Hmmmcamu provides a concise overview of the Seiko 6105-8119, a historically significant dive watch. This post details its origins as a popular choice for U.S. military personnel during the Vietnam War era, emphasizing its ruggedness and distinctive design.
The Seiko 6105-8119 specifically intended for the US market sold in PX (Post Exchange) stores on U.S. military installations during the Vietnam War era was a popular dive watch.
The 6105-8119 is part of the second generation of the 6105 series.
This model was part of a long-running series of Seiko divers that were widely used by service members for their ruggedness and reliability in harsh jungle environments. The watch features a distinctive asymmetric case with a crown protector at the 4 o'clock position, a 150-meter water resistance rating, and a self-winding caliber 6105B movement. It was available in two primary references, 6105-8110 and 6105-8119, with the difference in the last digit indicating the original market, though the watches are otherwise identical.
Veterans and collectors have confirmed the watch's popularity during the conflict. For instance, a sailor serving on a naval destroyer escort in Vietnam purchased his Seiko 6105-8000/8009 at the Subic Bay PX in the Philippines, noting it was a significant purchase for an enlisted man at the time.
The watch was also bought by a U.S. Navy pilot, who later acquired a 1972 Seiko 6105-8110 that had been purchased by a fellow sailor stationed on the USS Constellation during its final tours in Vietnam. This connection to the USS Constellation, a carrier active in Vietnam until after the Paris Peace Accords, adds a layer of authentic military history to the model.
The Seiko 6105-8119 was not officially issued by the military but was commonly purchased by service members at PX stores, where prices were often lower than in civilian markets. Its durability and affordability made it a favored choice for both recreational divers and soldiers. While some examples have been known to leak, the watch's overall robust design and proven track record in the field have cemented its legacy. The model's popularity has endured, leading to a limited reissue by Seiko in 2020 as the SLA033 to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual reference 6105 represents the brand's Bubble Back series from the 1940s. This 32mm timepiece demonstrates Rolex's automatic watchmaking during the decade, featuring the caliber A.10 movement with 42-hour power reserve.
The stainless steel case measures 32mm in diameter and houses an automatic caliber A.10 movement. The watch displays a silver dial beneath an acrylic crystal, framed by a smooth bezel. Water resistance extends to 50 meters, and the timepiece is fitted with a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in mid-20th century Rolex automatic watches and those focusing on the Bubble Back series specifically. The 32mm case size and silver dial configuration place this reference within the smaller format offerings of the Oyster Perpetual range from this production period.
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