The Seiko 6139: Everything You Need To Know... And Why It's Risky To Buy One!

[@berendsen817]

hello mr T3, just wanted to say that i have watched every single one of your videos and I was here since the very start (under 500 subscribers if I remember correctly) I used to comment vividly on youtube and on your videos aswell but last 6 months I don't interact as much. But I still watch every single video from you, because: 1. you always teach me something in your videos. 2. you are very fun to watch, even your 20 minute+ videos go by like in 5 minutes in my head, thats how interesting your topics and your whole character is. 3. Your watch taste has contaminated me. (i was stuck on this 3rd point for 5 minutes because I can't remember that specifik word but my point is your taste of watches is contagious and it contaminated me) 4. The fact that you pushed seikos and SKX so heavily (got my respect for that) and it granted you nothing short of big success with over 56k subscribers. I could write 10 more reasons but I gotta run for uni now damn I'm getting late.. Tonight I was reflecting and thought why not tell you, T3 what I think about you. Thing is, subscriber count and likes and comments act as feedback for youbut I just wanted to write you and tell you. and now it's getting a little long and anybody else reading this will think I'm weird.. I dont mind I'm just a big T3 fan! see ya next video which I as usual like before watching. Oh btw I always click your videos when I get notification :)

[@thetimeteller]

YOU ROCK!!!! Thanks for being such an awesome supporter!!! People like you are why I make this content! I’m really happy you’re enjoying everything! See ya on the next one!!

[@drticzon]

I am still wearing my yellow dial Pouge. Made December 1975. My parents gave me the watch as a 8th grade graduation gift when I was 14 years old (I am almost 62). I am still wearing the watch for the past 47 years as an everyday watch. It is all original, and still keeps good time. The crystal has a few scratches, but still in good condition. I always took off the watch when ever I was near water. I had it serviced about 3 times, and the last service was a little over 10 years ago. On the bracelet I engraved the year (1976) and my initials the following week after I received it as a gift right under the Seiko logo. My parents bought the watch at Macy's for $149. I still have the original box and tags.

[@MichaelWilliams-mo1vv]

I'm similar age to you and I remember seeing these in seiko catalogues in the 70s. I've recently been watching videos online where watchmakers have been servicing them and I must say I'm blown away by the construction of these movements. They are incredibly well made for watches at the original price point. I would go so far as to say they almost rival Omegas. They're certainly built to last.

[@guitarylife3062]

Found an all original blue dial 6139 in a bin at the thrift shop for $2 last week! It works perfectly still and just had it taken in to get serviced by and ex seiko servicemen!

[@nevahenuf]

Lucky dog.

[@ZCherish]

I'll buy it from you for 500% of that price! :D

[@mr.smitty4359]

Wow that's crazy...

[@hermanrivera3721]

@@ZCherish I have a yellow faced Pogue but the crown is missing if you are interested.

[@haikalthegreat]

Just got mine yesterday for $30! Watch still runs, but the chrono pusher gets stuck when you push it in. Can't wait to send it for servicing!

[@joshuaquintrell6732]

My father passed away suddenly in late June and while cleaning up all his stuff, I found his gold dial 6139-6002. He used to wear it all the time when I was younger until he somehow managed to loose the crown and winding stem. It then sat in a drawer for probably 20 odd years. When I got back home, I took it to the watch repairer and he managed to get it back up and running and put new original glass in in the process. The watch now goes perfectly and hasn't skipped a beat. I have noticed a few quirks with the watch though. The power reserve is only about 17 hours and it's also a good idea to wind up the watch before using the chronograph if you've been sitting around for a while as the chronograph function uses more of the power reserve. The watch definitely is a conversation piece and I've caught myself staring at the beautiful dial on more than one occasion.

[@georgelewis7154]

Back in 1973-74ish I was stationed in Southeast Asia and wanted a new watch. The BX had the 6139, 6138 Bullhead and 6138 Panda. They were all selling for about $100. The Bullhead was abnormally large (for it's day) and odd looking so it was a tossup between the other two. I bought the Panda and wore it for about 10 years. Earlier this year my daughter told me she still had my old Panda. I'm going to have it repaired, put on a NATO strap and wear it again. Cool watches, all of them. Thanks for the memories.

[@nevahenuf]

Just want to clear up a misconception. Automatic rotors will function in weightlessness. Even though a rotor is weightless in space it still has mass and is subject to the laws of inertia.

[@CharlieHustle1687]

Thanks for the education. I just got a 6139-7010 in an auction grab bag for a song and had to look up the model on the KZbin’s and this was the second I watched. Shalom, Jory.

[@motionprocess]

Thanks for another informative lively video. I’ve recently picked up a 6139 silver dial proof notch case from 1970. It actually takes me aback that these are about 50 years old and they’re so timeless and modern. Thxs for your work!

[@kaziahmed5377]

Such a beautiful watch. I have a vintage Seiko UFO (6138-0011) that my grandfather bought brand new in the 70's and later gave it to me. I can totally understand why people would go crazy for these vintage Seikos. You can wear them everyday or with black tie, all you'll get are complements. I know watch collectors have the tendency to get bored of a watch after a while and get rid of older watches for newer ones, but never let this one go. Pass it on to someone younger in the family that you love if you ever get tired of this one. Such a beautiful time piece with a wonderful history.

[@Sssthpok]

I have a six-unit collection of 6139's. I just love them.... My daily watch is a Seiko Sport 5, which is every but as impressive given it's price point. Keep all your quartz movements - the Seiko mechanical calibres are truly excellent,

[@roryblake7311]

Joey: I just bought a 6139-6000 dated February of 1969. Heard they were out there, now I have one

[@claytonscoble4271]

I have a fixation with the year 1971, so for our 10th anniversary (today), my wife handed me a `71 (true) pogue - serial number 182812. I absolutely love this watch!

[@dezinedude4563]

I've got two 6139s, both yellow dials, although my original 6009T needs attention. I'm ordering a new dial, crown, pushers, inner rotating ring etc before serious re-work. The other 6030R may indeed be a "Franken watch" but everything works and I love wearing it.

[@manfredvaegler7194]

I’m not really a watch guy but I got my 6139-6015 Blue dial as a gift from my parents when I graduated high school. Not being a watch guy I love your videos, I find your passion entertaining. Keep telling time 👍🏻

[@oldiesfreek]

The only question I wanna ask is... why, Seiko, why do you not make these anymore?!.... :(

[@JohnClarkW]

I completely agree, I would even go for up a modern mecha-quartz resissue.

[@oldiesfreek]

@@JohnClarkW Hey, even if it's good ol' quartz... :P

[@JohnClarkW]

@@oldiesfreek yes ... but the mecha would give it a nice smooth second hand. I am not a huge chronograph fan, the only one I currently own is the Bulova Lunar Pilot, and their high frequency movement is very cool.

[@oldiesfreek]

@@alexgutzwiller1637 I wouldn't consider those the same though. I'm just wondering why not reproduce them as closely as possible, including the complications. I know and have owned rehashed models that are either too big or deviate very far from the originals. I don't get why they bother to rehash at all if it's a half-hearted effort. Even Timex know how to re-create their earlier pieces. It seems Seiko don't really study what the market wants.

[@oldiesfreek]

@@JohnClarkW Can't agree more, but beggars can't be choosers and I'd grab a quartz version if they came up with that! LOL

[@roryblake7311]

Thanks Jory, Great watch ! 😃 I have a few variations... Your advice is sound. Everyone should invest in one! 😊

[@daviddodd7632]

I just bought a seiko 6139 at an estate sale. Manufactured in Feb. 1971, with the gold dial. It could use a new crystal, but I’m not sure that I want to put a new one in or just leave the character. It runs great and the bold look is awesome!

[@dxxa95]

I had the oportunity to buy a 6139 Pogue, the guy and stablished price (130 dlls) but when i and he arrived to the place where we were suposed to meet was when i noted that we were in 2 different cities with streets with the same name... I felt like an idiot.

[@ChrisSmith-jcs1111]

I still have, and wear, my 6139-6005 Blue dial that I received as a high school graduation present in 1977. It's in my watch rotation with my Submariner and Seamaster.

[@deegz]

I feel so lucky to have picked up a 6139 proof a few months ago from the original owner. Used but not abused. Love these watches but u gotta be careful for the franken watches. Wear it in good health Jory, it’s a beautiful watch!!

[@justme307]

I have a JDM 04/1970 manufacture 6139-6030 black proof dial with red/black tachymeter, notched proof case with yellow second hand and yellow small minute hand. Love the watch too!

[@jimmymack1079]

One thing I’ll always regret is missing an auction on a birth year, birth MONTH silver in pristine condition. I’m lucky enough to have one of the earliest gold dial notch case proofs, an ‘Aussie Pogue’, a Blue and waiting on a near mint ‘True’. They really are one of the quirkiest and most enjoyable watches to own. The hunt for a good original one is just as enjoyable. Great video.

[@AllanT-nu4rw]

I have been through this many times as an original owner of two 6139s, a 71 blue resist dial Bruce Lee and a 76 black dial Pogue. I have given up trying to buy honest period correct 6139s to add to my collection, now I simply buy as many oem used parts as possible, restore them and construct a watch using as minimal repro bits as possible. At least this way I get a watch at a fraction of the price of a misrepresented one with no hidden surprises.

[@manoflego123]

I just handled one of these yesterday at my local watch seller. They had it listed at $450 and that includes a 1 year warranty. They're a Seiko AD and service center to boot, so I trust them. I was seriously considering getting the Bulova Spaceview they have, but I might save up for this instead now.

[@manfredvaegler9661]

I still have a 6149 Bruce Lee It was a gift from my parents when I graduated high school

[@armandojuan64]

I was a child when those watches were in full swing . You would have loved living in the 70s and the 80s . I keep watching you videos and hoping for more to come ....... by the way , that watch is in perfect condition . Sweet purchase , Jory .

[@thomasdelco2553]

are you the WJWW Cardenas? I got a Seiko Pouge 48 years ago as a wedding gift from my wife.

[@thewatchloungechris]

I like them and love Seiko , but I'll stick with my El Premero :)

[@cdr2us]

I just bought a 1973 6139-6005 Cevert…love it!

[@khronokraze]

Another great review. Much better than the one I did on this particular watch.. mine was more of a personal experience and thoughts on the watch than information filled like yours. Anyways, glad to see you sharing your appreciation and thoughts for this watch and the 6139 speed-timers in general by spreading knowledge to those who don't know.. or maybe know but could know even more. Glad you are having a blast with the watch. I sometimes regret having to let it go, but I enjoyed my time with it and said I at least had a chance to personally experience it. I grew to love the history and funky style. Has tons of character. And, for a nearly 50-year-old watch, it's running REALLY good. Have to say noticeably better than my vintage Rolex that isn't quite as old as that Seiko.. by about 3 years younger. and, absolutely.. the price should reflect the condition, quality and complete originality. For that, I do believe they are worth the significantly higher price tag they demand. Peace of mind and know it's all original is icing on the cake for such a vintage watch. Here are 2 main sources I referenced for 6139's: WATCHUSEEK Thread: HOW TO BUY A SEIKO 6139-600x CHRONOGRAPH - A Collector's Buying Guide forums.watchuseek.com/f281/how-buy-seiko-6139-600x-chronograph-collectors-buying-guide-140803.html THESPRINGBAR The Seiko 6139 - 600X Collectors Guide thespringbar.com/blogs/guides/the-seiko-6139-600x-collectors-guide Most definitely do your homework and know what are legitimate variations of the 6139 and how to spot non-original components. I find Spencer Klein's KZbin channel immensely resourceful. A lot of videos are client specific, but he has a lot of experience with the 6139's and many of the vintage watches, not just Seikos.. there's a lot of good and interesting information if you put the time into viewing them to become better acquainted with the 6139 or other vintage Seiko models.

[@shabysachs]

I own this watch. This was owned by my Grandpa and now I own it. He had bought it when was in USA in around 1980s

[@mdkushner]

Already said this on instagram but will say it again. My dad has one with the blue dial. I have very fond memories of holding it in my hands shaking it while feeling that movement wind. It was always used as a grill timer. I'm trying to convince my dad to give it to me since he doesn't wear watches.

[@paularowe7651]

I have just discovered my old Seiko Pogue manufactured July 1971. It has the gold face and 70m water resist inscription. Probably had it for 25+ yrs. It seems to keep good time but chrono op. won't reset. Have sent in for service so hopefully will be ok after. Still has the original hardlex glass a bit scratched and the gold face is very clean. The date change works and the rotating bezel is fairly good (not been in the UK) for many years. I love this watch!

[@kydn3y]

He never fails to consistently put out cool and enjoyable content. :)

[@rockon21ful]

6139 is the chronograph movement, there should be 4 other digits to determine the model. such as 6139-600X, I also own Seiko chrono movement in the model 6138-0011 better known as the UFO! The 6138 was built in 1970 and like the 6139 the last models were built in 1979. Looks like the 6139-6002 is the yellow piece that went to space, Pogue had the International model that had Chronograph Automatic below the 12 o'clock while the Japanese Domestic Models had Seiko Speedtimer below the 12. You've got a very good looking timepiece and the 6139- is a much harder find than the 6138-! So Congratulations!

[@BonitoBuddha]

I just picked up a 6139-6030 (6050T black dial "coke" variant) all original with yellow sweeping seconds hand and subdial hands, produced in March of 1970 with the white seconds-hand subdial. I'm soooo in love with this watch. Purchased it for about $450.

[@BernardManansala]

LOVE THEM!!! I have a Blue Dial and a Gold Dial. My Blue Dial was my Father's.

[@alastairwatson3201]

Ssooo cool! I’ve had a yellow Pogue, serial # starting 43, for several months now. I bought it to wear when I drive my 1975 JDM car. Accurate stylish and individual! Love it.

[@menaseven9093]

Awesome vintage Seiko 6139 that was the first automatic chronograph and the first chronograph in space.

[@gavanmitchell9095]

I know this video is old but thanks for making it. Subbed! I do have a question though. I’m building a Frankenstein 6139 ... BUT! ... I’m going to do it right and using original parts and hopefully building it back to how it left production. I got a good deal on a case which still has the inner tachymeter which is blue, so I’m fairly sure it’s a blue dial version. It’s one without an outer bezel. The serial on the case back indicates August 1971. My question is, is your watch a 6139A or 6139B? Trying to figure out exactly when they changed to the ‘B’ movement.

[@dannyn1698]

Just watched your video. Very informative. I have two 6139’s. My first watch I bought with my first paycheck when I was in the Air Force, 6139 yellow face Pogue, April 1977. Just purchased a second 6139-6015, blue face, March 1973. I’m addicted to the 6139. I want the 6139-8000 next. Thank you.

[@deanspeer1]

Really want one. Think I'm going to go for an Enicar Sherpa Guide first. Then the Pogue!

[@poniatowski3547]

The Swiss bro dudes can go weep. Like it or not the 6139 was a whole heap of firsts. Proudly wear my dad's 6139-6002 today. He bought it in June 1972. It's been worn as a everyday watch through 20 years army and 20 police service. Absolute boss watch.

[@blackwell1384]

I received mine as a gift for graduating high school. My dad bought it in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Blue face. Serial starts 05. I gave it a shake and it started right up. Says water resist on the dial. It is beat up but I know it has not been apart since I got in 1972. Thanks for the video

[@MrShoryuken1]

I miss my 6139-7070, should never have sold it. Probably worth lot more now as it was pretty minty with the factory bracelet.

[@MrVooLe]

That bracelet fits like a glove. Beautiful piece.

[@looseunit1615]

I have the yellow dial Seiko 6139. I bought it used in 1976 when I was 16. It doesn't work but has been with me as part of my watch collection. I'm hoping to get it restored.

[@aaroncostello8812]

I knew your watch was made in 1971 or early 1972 just by looking at the dial! The 6139 is a wonderful watch, and as a long-time collector of vintage Seikos I am glad they are finally getting their due. They are great looking, well-made, accurate, and...most importantly...reliable. I can't believe they have gotten that expensive! When I first started collecting them back in the early 2000s they typically went for between $50 and $100 on auction sites. I always preferred the blue dials to the yellow dials, as I thought the yellow was a bit much. But the silver really is tough to find, as it seems to have been restricted to markets in and around Australia.

[@mikeabbott1031]

Just bought a 71 SEIKO pogue after losing mine 51 years ago. Managed to get a original watch complete how I love this thing don’t know how I have managed without one for so long

[@gregsmith1264]

Seikosis makes a replacement metal bracelet for the 6139.....feels way tighter and secure with it replaced on my Pogue.

[@ntag411]

I had one back when I was about 12 years old with the orange dial in the late 60s, I think. It was stolen in a burglary along with a bunch of other things. Has an internal rotating bezel turned by the crown. The sub-dail is a 30 minute register.

[@rayscrafield2106]

Very interesting and info that I wasn't aware of. I have a silver face like yours from February 1972. I bought it off a kid who needed money. I love this watch like you but mine no longer works. So, my question to you, who would you recommend that I take mine to for service? Someone who can be trusted to do the right thing? I think what it needs is a good cleaning and lubriction. I live in So. Cal. Are you anywhere near me? Who do you use for service?

[@jeffreyalbarandorivera9750]

Your watch insert ring if original it can be a seldom used watch or a NOS one ..For that long from 1970s you can get a scratches but that one no evident for scratches so I think that is either a NOS insert or a high quality AM..

[@hollandjones2957]

Do you recommend a good resource to read about these before buying?

[@geneangelos8406]

I recently bought the Seiko 6139, the yellow face. I love it out of all my Seiko’s . What a beautiful watch! It’s going to the grave with me lol !

[@drwindsurf]

That is a beautiful watch Jory! I love it. Congratulations on finding such an amazing example. Thank you for sharing this one with us : )

[@tomcat561]

Just watched this and pulled the trigger on one. Thanks!

[@tonib5899]

It’s always Swiss or seiko, my watch tips I got given when I got into it.either one are at the top f the game.

[@xxxocampo7215]

They also have the sunrise variant which is also rare

[@Paraguayanguy33]

I never saw you so happy.

[@MrJazzflute]

Fantastic piece of kit , been looking for one myself but its a minefield out there , thanks for the heads up.

[@opticledilusi0n]

I just got my dad's fixed and been wearing it daily. Only issue with it is seals

[@tevayeo5170]

Nice Pouge you had. Mine is blueish dial

[@carlomagno9522]

I have one of the Seiko chronograph 70m proof 6139-6010 blue (1969).

[@lukemarr2548]

Dude! Great example, it seems SO difficult to get a decent one nowadays, especially without the ugly white or black inner bezel. I’m currently on the hunt myself, ideally for yellow, but I’m going to buy on condition over anything else. However, with their recent surge in value they’re almost approaching Speedy Reduced territory...

[@ThisIsTaco1]

I've read that these are supposed to have their chronograph running at all times to avoid wear. Just a recommendation, Jory.

[@thetimeteller]

It was literally running the entire video🤔

[@ThisIsTaco1]

@@thetimeteller I know, it was just a friendly reminder. You're more knowledgable than me, but I just wanted to help

[@mr.airgun6921]

Good idea to have them off for a period too. I service these for people from all over the world and it seems to have been forgotten that the centre wheel axle to centre wheel runner is lubricated at service (or should be) and the only time this is running is when the Chronograph is off. The majority of the time though, yes it should be running.

[@gamebred26]

That is correct

[@starfluke]

Mr. Airgun the bevel on the minute hand on mine was so easy to align with my minute markers that I habitually started the chrono exactly when it passed the hour or half hour. It was satisfying to see it correspond.

[@tcniel]

Got mine and it will soon meet Uncle Seiko and I will wear it daily........

[@clo2715]

Cool watch. I bought a 6139-8029 with a rally bracelet all original this year and it's one of my favorite watches.

[@wizboy6508]

Hey, I have a 6139-6002 (1971/ Blue Dial / Middle East). It is slightly damaged. But everything works properly and runs well. How much could I quote for the watch?

[@angoethomsen2315]

I got the gold plated. And i love it😊

[@rafaelbenavente68]

Love the Pogue! tks for the Video!

[@oscargustavoarcosruiz8793]

I LOVEEEEEEE IIIT!!! Time Teller you have a escuisit taste.

[@LesterLovesWatches]

oscar gustavo arcos ruiz I really want a biscuit now.

[@jcm4549]

Excellent vintage piece! Ur recommendations on websites to start my hunt for a 6139?

[@docdoowop]

I have the non resist yellow version. All original, beaten to a pulp but it works perfect. It is my favorite for me too. But my brown dial Seiko Bullhead comes a close second.

[@dude8093]

Absolutely amazing video.

[@dude8093]

stunning, i have this watch but in terrible terrible condition

[@onthewrist5006]

Great vid Jory. I just got my 6139 yellow face dial today. Trying to figure it out still.

[@zzzpmi]

gone are the days when good specimens of 6139s are bought cheap and bang for buck. nowadays there are so many franken pieces and aftermarket parts. i got my silver pogue for USD 115 on ebay year 2004.

[@michaelzuccardo5414]

Very cool Seiko! Thanks for another informative video!

[@qwertyuiop5207]

I believe there's a black dial as well , known as the Aussie Pogue , an Australian only issue

[@samd.5203]

The Aussie Pogue has a honey gold color dial but has a black internal rotating ring. Usually the yellow/gold Pogues came with a yellow internal ring but a small group of watches found in the south pacific were sold with black rotating internal rings. IMO they look awesome and are much more attractive than the normal yellow ring variety, but that may be due to the fact that I own one. LOL.

[@markdarville8828]

Really love this watch. I personally want the yellow dial version but this silver dial version is equally beautiful. Hopefully I can get my hands on one in as great condition as yours.

[@Bob_Adkins]

Beautiful watch! All other things being equal, does either the 6000, 6001, 6002, 6003 have more or less collector or enthusiast value than the others?

[@andrewolsen5667]

I love how I always get Seiko Couture ads before your videos lol!

[@thetimeteller]

😂🤷🏻‍♂️🤦🏻‍♂️

[@antonio_a87]

please give us more info on what we should know, because I love it its amazing

[@Ceaze87]

Lovin that piece bro. Especially the vintage look about it. Cool history as well.

[@edwingomez9308]

I have a silver one as well. You are right. It is a beautiful watch

[@alejandrodelavega9857]

How can you tell if your watch is 100% original, such as yours?

[@carlosa.valentin.ministries]

Love your videos. Keep the good work.

[@jefferyneu3915]

Cool watch! Talk to Federico about winders. I have stopped using mine. Keep up the great work!

[@thetimeteller]

I use mine proudly

[@RetroworksMusic]

Great video I have a couple of 6139 - 6002 one silver dial exactly like the one in the video and one navy both from 1976 the silver September and the blue April and both says automatic chronograph under seiko the only difference is the silver has the 70m Resist markings on the dial and the dark blue dial doesn't

[@donrossi1603]

Very Cool Watch.!! Great history. Good to upgrade the bracelet too. 👍

[@torsvaghavfiske2528]

Best looking watch in the world.

[@MoopyBurn]

Makes me happy to see how much you love this watch

[@LesterLovesWatches]

One thing to add to the whole “which was first” debate is that you can find 6139s with a March 1969 or even a February 1969 dated caseback. Whether the watches were on the market in those months is a matter for debate.

[@aaroncostello8812]

Seiko tends to start producing watches a month or two before they are actually released for sale. Production of the 6139 started in February, which would fit with an April-May release. Seiko still adheres to this policy.

[@MrRideabighorse]

I have a 6139-7060 that has a black dial. It also has a stop watch function. I bought it at the Tick Tock shop in Agana Guam around 1983. The serial number starts 77. It is missing the stem which fell out and was lost.

[@aaroncostello8812]

I assume you mean the crown fell off? The crown is the round knob you set the watch with. Replacements are available.

[@auburnsenn2040]

This watch is cool alright, the yellow most appealing.....

[@howardpayne4128]

Have the same watch 0N6603 so is that november 1970? It was bought in Hong Kong by a friend of mine in 1971.

[@sebastianjungle]

what about the brown dails

[@saullevy5074]

I love your videos, TIME TELLAH!!

[@watchgollum]

Seiko 6139 and 6138 best bang for your buck. I have a gold and blue dialed Pogues and another non Pogue 6139. Plus 3 variations of the 6138 UFO. I bought all these over 10 years back and never paid over £50. I now can't afford them.

[@douggillespie3677]

I have one, bought it in South East Asia..1970

[@CleanNuts]

Hi I have a 6139 0000 the first two numbers of the serial number are 02 so I'm guessing it was made Febuary 1970 and it has a notched case by the crown do you think I'm right ? regards from England