Vintage Seiko Automatic TV-Shaped Wrist Watch with Rare Green Dial

A striking example of 1970s Japanese watchmaking, this vintage Seiko automatic wristwatch pairs bold geometric styling with a rare green dial and the distinctive, television-inspired case design that defined the era. Dating to the 1970s, this unusual timepiece, reference 5606-5017, features an oversized, softly squared stainless steel case surrounding a recessed rectangular dial, creating the unmistakable silhouette collectors often call a "TV dial" watch. Its broad, rounded case and compact central display reflect the decade's experimental design trends, as watchmakers increasingly moved away from traditional circular cases in favor of architectural shapes and unconventional proportions. The watch's most captivating feature is its rich green dial, a distinctive color that contrasts dramatically with the cool silver tones of the stainless steel case. Slender applied hour markers, contrasting hands, and a prominent day-date display give the dial a clean, functional appearance while preserving its unmistakably vintage character. A brown leather strap with contrasting stitching completes the design, adding a warm, understated element that complements the unusual green dial and balances the case's substantial proportions. Powered by a traditional automatic mechanical movement and recently serviced, this distinctive Seiko offers an appealing combination of vintage Japanese engineering, collectible styling, and the expressive design sensibilities of the 1970s.

The watch's generously proportioned stainless steel case features a broad, cushion-shaped exterior, softly rounded corners, and a recessed rectangular dial opening. The substantial metal surrounding the dial creates a distinctive framed appearance, emphasizing the contrast between the watch's bold outer silhouette and its comparatively compact central display. A brushed finish gives the stainless steel a muted, industrial character, while the gently curved case edges soften its otherwise geometric construction. The green dial provides a particularly memorable focal point, displaying a rich emerald-inspired tone with subtle variations in color and texture that contribute to its authentic vintage appearance. Silver-tone baton hour markers are positioned around the dial's perimeter, with longer indices at the principal hour positions for a balanced, easily recognizable layout. The contrasting hands complement these markers, maintaining the watch's functional aesthetic while introducing additional visual interest. A vertically oriented day-date aperture occupies the upper portion of the dial, displaying both the day of the week and numerical date through a framed opening. This practical complication is characteristic of Seiko's automatic watches from the period, when the brand frequently incorporated useful everyday functions into designs that remained accessible and stylish. The Seiko signature and automatic designation appear toward the lower portion of the dial, identifying the watch's mechanical heritage without overwhelming its colorful surface. A small ridged crown extends from the upper edge of the case, preserving the design's clean lines while providing access to the watch's winding and setting functions. The brown leather strap features a smooth finish, warm undertones, and contrasting stitching along its edges, creating an attractive visual balance with the cool stainless steel case and vibrant green dial. Together, these elements produce a wristwatch that feels distinctly rooted in the 1970s, with a bold yet surprisingly wearable combination of color, texture, and unconventional geometry.

Founded in Japan in the late nineteenth century, Seiko became one of the most influential names in modern watchmaking through its commitment to precision engineering, innovative technology, and accessible mechanical craftsmanship. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the company developed an extensive range of automatic wristwatches that combined reliable movements with increasingly adventurous case designs, reflecting the period's rapidly changing tastes. The 1970s were particularly significant for wristwatch aesthetics, as manufacturers embraced oversized cushion cases, integrated styling, vivid dial colors, and unusual geometric configurations that challenged traditional expectations of what a watch should look like. Television-shaped cases became especially recognizable during this era, drawing inspiration from the rounded rectangular screens of contemporary television sets and translating those familiar forms into distinctive wristwatch designs. This Seiko reference 5606-5017 beautifully captures that spirit, pairing a substantial stainless steel case with an eye-catching green dial and a practical automatic day-date movement. The reference belongs to Seiko's 5606 movement family, associated with the company's Lord Matic-era mechanical watches and appreciated by vintage enthusiasts for their combination of engineering and period-specific design. Unlike quartz watches, an automatic mechanical movement uses the natural motion of the wearer's wrist to wind its mainspring, maintaining the traditional relationship between mechanical precision and everyday functionality. The watch has been serviced, an important consideration for collectors seeking a vintage mechanical timepiece intended for continued enjoyment. Its uncommon green dial adds another layer of appeal, setting it apart from the more common silver, champagne, and black dial variations associated with vintage dress watches. For enthusiasts of Japanese horology, collectors of unusual 1970s designs, or anyone drawn to expressive vintage accessories, this Seiko offers a wonderful combination of mechanical heritage and unmistakable personality. Its bold proportions, distinctive dial color, and sculptural stainless steel case make it an excellent representation of an era when watch design embraced experimentation, individuality, and a refreshing departure from convention.

Details: Vintage Seiko automatic wristwatch, reference 5606-5017, dating to the 1970s, featuring a stainless steel TV-shaped cushion case, rare green dial, applied silver-tone hour markers, day-date display, automatic mechanical movement, and brown leather strap with contrasting stitching; serviced.