Seiko
1976 Seiko Automatic Chronograph (Ref. 6139-6002) "Pogue"
The first automatic chronograph is a heavily disputed claim, as multiple watch companies debuted what they claimed as "the first" automatic chronograph in the year 1969. However, the Seiko 6139-6000 was the first automatic chronograph that was available for purchase in May of 1969, exclusively to the Japanese market. Not only was the ref. 6139, the first production automatic chronograph, but the watch also features a quickset day and date complication that is operated through the pushing of the button-style crown.
The Seiko refs. 6139 with a yellow dial and an inner yellow rotating ring are commonly nicknamed “Pogue”. In 1973, NASA Astronaut Col. Pogue wore his personal Seiko 6139-6002 during the NASA Skylab 4 mission, subsequently making Seiko the first automatic chronograph to be used in space. Pogue purchased the Seiko chronograph from a PX for $71 in 1972 to use during his flight training, as NASA Astronauts were not issued their Omega Speedmasters until much closer to the launch dates. Due to Pogue's familiarity with the Seiko chronograph over the Omega Speedmaster, he hid his personal Seiko 6139-6002 in his flight suit before launching into space so that he could use his Seiko in conjunction with his Omega Speedmaster for the duration of the Skylab 4 mission.
(Col. Pogue during the Skylab 4 mission, wearing his personal Seiko 6139-6002 on his left wrist and his NASA-issued Omega Speedmaster on his right)
| Stock # | SKO61396002-3 | |
| Brand | Seiko | |
| Style | Automatic Chronograph | |
| Model | 6139-6002 | |
| Serial | 65XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Gold | |
| Millimeters | 45 | |
| Bracelet | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The impressive case remains in very well-preserved condition, showing only light signs of use, with the original case geometry fully present, and no notable evidence of being polished in the past. The original "Pepsi" tachymeter bezel remains bright in color with minimal signs of use present. The case retains its original button crown and pump pushers. The case back retains all of its original factory markings in deep and crisp condition. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The original gold sunburst dial is in exceptional overall condition with only gentle age around the bottom sub-dial, with no actual damage present. The inner rotating bezel retains its matching bright gold color. The luminous material on the dial and hands remains bright white in color, and niether exhibit degradation when inspected under UV light.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.