1976 Seiko Diver (Ref. 6105-8110) "Captain Willard"

Although they may not be the most luxurious or difficult watch to obtain, Seiko watches are loved by collectors both at the entry level and by the most discerning collectors with a cult-like following. There is a specific sense of satisfaction that comes from wearing a Seiko, that you are 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 series replaced Seiko’s original professional diver, the 62MAS, in 1968, and the Seiko Diver bearing the 6105 movement was produced until 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, making 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 originally came on a rubber dive strap. Although robust and solidly built, the watch on the wrist doesn't look bulky or oversized. The 6105 is powered by the Seiko caliber 6105B, a 17-jewel self-winding movement that features a second-hand hacking mechanism 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 large applied indices are filled with lume surrounded by a highly visible silver minute track which pairs perfectly with the large handset, this combination provides easy time-telling readability at a glance, even in low light conditions adding to the tool watch 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 PXs, 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.

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