During the 1970s, Seiko produced a variety of different chronograph watches, and these timepieces have become favorites among today’s collectors due to their funky designs and of-the-era case shapes. One of the most popular is the Seiko Chronograph ref. 6138, which is best known by its “UFO” nickname due to its large, rounded case that lacks any type of lugs protruding from its sides.

In addition to its “UFO” nickname, the Seiko ref. 6138 chronograph is also sometimes called the "Big Eye/Small Eye” due to its asymmetrically sized sub-dials, and the model even appeared under the “Yachtman” name in one American distributor’s advertisement at the time. The Seiko UFO offers a distinctly sporty and racing-inspired aesthetic, which is emblematic of chronograph watches produced during the 1970s. Its unique case shape and distinct design make it instantly recognizable, and one can be spotted on the wrist of French acting legend Jean-Paul Belmondo in his 1972 film, La Magnifique (more famously known by its English title, The Man From Acapulco).

CASE & BRACELET

The wonderfully large and retro UFO style case appears to have been lightly polished in the past and shows minimal signs of previous wear. The orignial tachymeter bezel displays honest signs of light signs of use and remain deep black in color. The case retians its original pushers, the crown may be an early service replacement. The case back retains all of the factory markings in visible condition though some fading is present from wear. The original Seiko bracelet is in excellent overall condition and retains 22 links that show almost no stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/2-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black dial is in very well-preserved condition, showing almost no signs of age and no damage whatsoever. The sub-dials remain in near perfect condition as well. The lume plots have taken on a dark grey coloration, under U.V. light inspection some nominal degradation is present in some of the plots though it is not detectable to the naked eye. The origina luminous hands match the dial perfectlywith no degradation present under U.V. light inspection. There is some chipping in the white enamel of the hands that is shown in the photos.

ACCESSORIES 

None. Watch is functioning and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.