I first came across a Seiko 6138-0030 Kakume, when a friend had me pick one up for him. He lives in Germany, and the seller didn’t ship Internationally. He had given a fair few bucks for it! So I was wondering what all the fuss was about? I opened the box up and saw that stunning design and was instantly in love! To me it looked like some kind of Omega, without the high price tag. Plus i’m a sucker for blue! But the bracelet, the one they call a ‘Fishbone bracelet’ felt awful on the wrist, and just didn’t look right and plucked my wrist hair out. They did release an Oyster type, which was much better.

The movement is excellent, the 21 jewel 6138A was released in the early 70’s, and was the first fully integrated automatic chronograph with a column wheel and vertical clutch coupling mechanism. So it’s Automatic and can be wound. It rivals any Swiss movement of its time! I posted that one to my friend. Became jealous, like he stole my girlfriend, and bought my own, which is 100% original except for the bracelet. I bought a bracelet for it from Uncle Seiko, a company that specializes in the recreation of Seiko type bracelets, but high quality, and it is the Oyster type. It’s ‘The Business!’ My Kakume also came with a fishbone hair destroyer!

Mine has a case that has been over-polished. They even polished the bits that are supposed to be brushed…idjits! Ah well it’s almost 50 years old! Buying a vintage watch is like buying a vintage car, be prepared to put hand in pocket, as they need maintaining from time to time. Luckily it’s a Seiko and not a Heuer/Zenith/Speedy and there are lots of parts available, and watchmakers who can help. Overall it’s a beautiful watch, & affordable at the moment.

Kakume means ‘Square eyes’ in Japanese. I’ll warn you though, there are many Seiko 6138-0030 Kakume Frankenwatches out there, so research before buying, is paramount!