Author: Martback
http://www.network54.com/Forum/78440/thread/1235723661/1235759498/The+elusive+MotoristThe Seiko Motorist is a variant of the Seiko Harmony, which is essentially a ladies watch series. It uses the 205 caliber which is also a smaller size caliber usually used in ladies watches. However, at 37mm it is a mans size watch, especially if you relate it to other watches in the early 60s. I would also assume that a drivers watch in Japan almost 50 years ago would be appropriate in the male market rather than in the female market. The Motorist was introduced in 1964 and is a fairly low end watch from a technical and cost perspective. Priced at JPY6,500, it would cost about as much as a Seiko Champion. However, the tilted dial and the asymmetrical case tried to position it as a stylish drivers watch, similar to the drivers watches of the 30s in the US market.
My Motorist has a bit of discoloration on the dial but as it is very evenly distributed and matches the dial edge decoration, I think it actually improves the watch.
Asymmetrical case for better visibility when driving.
Side shot shows asymmetry. The case has a 20 micron gold plating so the discoloration should come off quite well.
Caseback with distinct motorist logo, a bit similar to the alpinist script.
A lot of design elements on the Motorist borrowed from (or provided to) this Champion model.
/ martin
