In our journey of curating exceptional vintage Grand Seiko models, one iconic gem has remained elusive: The Grand Seiko First Ref.14070 "3180" - the horological cornerstone that ignited a legacy.
The inaugural Grand Seiko, launched in 1960 during the mid-20th-century watchmaking heyday, remains a pinnacle of collectibility. Produced in limited quantities over three years, this 35mm × 10.5mm hand-wound dress watch is a prized vintage treasure.
The origins of the first Grand Seiko trace back to the foundation of K. Hattori & Co. in 1881 and the evolution of iconic timepieces like the Marvel, Lord Marvel, and Crown watches in the 1950s. Generations of Seiko watchmakers and engineers dedicated themselves to crafting a timepiece that epitomizes durability, precision, and comfort—the essence of Grand Seiko. This relentless pursuit of innovation remains the driving force behind Grand Seiko's continued excellence.
The First Grand Seiko presents a design that resonates with contemporary Grand Seiko enthusiasts. Its sleek round case, just under 35mm in diameter, though smaller by today's standards, reflects the era of its inception. Adorned with diamond-polished hour markers, a hallmark of modern Grand Seiko watches, it offers a mesmerizing play of light. Throughout its production, it featured both flat and dauphine handsets. The logo, crafted in three distinct versions, bears the iconic gothic-style lettering that defines the Grand Seiko brand.
Today, we're thrilled to present the impeccable "Raised Logo" variant of the Grand Seiko First in a 14K gold-filled case — A truly essential addition to any collection.
Shipped from Tokyo, Japan
Grand Seiko First J14070 Raised logo
This Grand Seiko First is in immaculate condition. The case is in good shape with some scratches due to use without any noticeable bumps. You can see some tarnishing on the lugs but it doesn't ruin the overall charm.
The original dial is immaculate with some tiny dots due to age but unnoticeable by the naked eye. The handset and indexes are beautiful. The crown appears original to the watch as seen from the informed color matching the case and it is in good shape. The caseback and medallion are in good condition with no signs of peeling.
The watch comes with a fresh pair of Seiko's DA63 crocodile straps in black and its correct golden buckle.
BRAND: Grand Seiko
MODEL: First model "3080"
REFERENCE: J14070E
DIAL: Original white dial - SD logo
CASE MATERIAL: 14K Gold filled
CASE DIMENSIONS: 35.0 x 43.0 mm diameter; 10mm thickness, 18mm lug width.
CRYSTAL: Plexiglass
CASE BACK: Snap-in 14K Gold filled
MOVEMENT: Hand-wound Cal.3080
Manufacturing date: August 1962
Service History: Serviced in July 2020, ±8s/day
Bracelet/Strap: Seiko Brown crocodile straps with the correct Seiko buckle.