Seiko 6105 "Captain Willard" Vintage & Reissue

Subexplorer · 2024-05-05T00:52:54Z

Explore the Seiko 6105 "Captain Willard" with Subexplorer's review of both the vintage 6105-8110 and modern SLA033 reissue. Discover its Vietnam War history and cinematic legacy.

Subexplorer

WPS member · Seiko forum

24 replies7188 views9 photos

Subexplorer shares his deep appreciation for the Seiko 6105, famously known as the "Captain Willard" after its appearance in "Apocalypse Now." His post details the journey of acquiring both the modern reissue, SLA033, and an original 1976 reference, offering a comparative perspective on these iconic diver's watches. The article is enriched with personal anecdotes and thematic photography, connecting the watch to its historical and cinematic context.

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… 6105 a.k.a. “Captain Williard” a nickname which was given by collectors after the film “Apocalypse Now” where the main character called Captain Williard, played by actor Martin Sheen is shown wearing this watch.

Actually this reference 6105-8110 was a popular watch during the period of Vietnam War among the troops. This was an affordable watch offering reliability and a solid construction to resist the hardships of the place they were fighting.

A few years ago Seiko launched a beautifully made reissue of this watch as reference SLA 033 which was very faithful except for a bit larger case.

I quickly ordered one of these watches as this watch had haunted me for long. I enjoy so much when wearing it.

But the idea of owning an original watch kept residing in my mind.

Finally a couple of years ago I found an original watch from 1976 in a very reasonable condition which I’m sharing in the present post. The watch was fitted with a nice reproduction of the so called “waffle straps” which equipped these watches in that era.

I love this watch and it always brings me memories of this fantastic cult film when I wear it. I took a few shots playing with some “props” from my gun and Randall knives collection.

The chosen knife is a model 14 Attack from the mid 1960’s period which was popular model in Vietnam.

The pistol is a 1911A1 .45 caliber version made by Remington Rand during WW2 but still issued during Vietnam War.

Thank you for viewing and reading!

Best!

Abel

An ad from the 1960’s:

About the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 6105

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.

Specifications

Caliber: A.10

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 32 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 50m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The Seiko 6105 earned its "Captain Willard" nickname from collectors after being worn by Martin Sheen's character in the film "Apocalypse Now," becoming a cult watch among Seiko enthusiasts much later than the film's release.
The original 6105-8110 was a popular and affordable choice among troops during the Vietnam War due to its reliability and robust construction.
The modern reissue, Seiko SLA033, is highly faithful to the original design, though slightly larger, offering a more sophisticated finish and movement suitable for water activities, unlike the vintage original.
The contributor shares a personal connection to the Randall Model 14 Attack knife and the 1911A1 .45 caliber pistol, both historically relevant to the Vietnam War era, using them as props for thematic photography with the watch.
Seiko watches were noted as popular and inexpensive in Vietnam by a veteran, who wore an Accutron during his service.
The decision to feature the Seiko 6105 in "Apocalypse Now" was likely a deliberate choice by the props department after researching popular timepieces of the Vietnam period.
The original 6105-8110 is considered highly collectible, with finding one in good condition, especially with box and papers, being a rare and desirable achievement for collectors.

The Discussion

Subexplorer

May 5, 2024

Wow Bill !! That’s a wonderful example!!

To find one with box and papers and in such condition is like a sweet dream!! Glad to know we share the love for the 6105!! Thank you for sharing your watch in these great shots and the reference to the film! Have a nice weekend!! Best, Abel

Lankysudanese

May 5, 2024

Is that you on active duty, Bill. If that the base, then that’s the most badass wrist shot that I’ve ever seen

. Is that an Ericka’s originals Marine Nationale strap at the last shot? Looks like a great watch to own

Bill

May 5, 2024

Yes that is the strap. The picture is Martin Sheen in the movie Apocalypse Now. Have a great Sunday.

Lankysudanese

May 5, 2024

What an excellent write-up. I wasn’t aware of this reference.

Looks right at home with the technical-but-lethal gear

Subexplorer

May 5, 2024

Thank you so much for your kind comments Lankysudanese. I´m glad I could share this interesting reference to you and our friends here. Best cordial regards, Abel

Subexplorer

May 5, 2024

Hello Julius! I´m glad to know we share the love for this reference. Thank you for sharing your beautiful example looking in great condition in your nice wristshots.

Keep enjoying yours so much! Best cordial regards, Abel