The sub-dials have blue hands with one of them being tailed, a historically accurate version. This depends on the vendor and some may even have a sapphire crystal in place of an acrylic crystal. The watch can have either a cream or silver dial. The indexes are also applied, while the sub-dials of the watch are painted, as well as the inscriptions on it. This timepiece features a 38mm case with an acrylic crystal. One of the most common versions of the watch is called the “Red Star” 1963. Given that it can be made by 3rd parties, the 1963 Original Reissue had a lot of different variations as compared to other references of the same watch. Instead, the 1963 is distributed by a lot of various vendors. Technically, Tianjin SeaGull doesn’t sell this 1963 watch itself. This timepiece references the 1963 prototype despite the changes in colours and perhaps is one of the least accurate versions of the timepiece. However, despite the strange choice of colours, the overall design of the watch is beautiful. This includes quite a quirky design with colour combinations that’s not particularly the first that would come to mind when creating a timepiece. Looking at the watch, it can be seen how well-balanced the timepiece is. People call it the “Original” reissue as it’s the timepiece responsible for sparking up a whole craze around the SeaGull 1963. Let’s break down all the reissues of this watch. Among those include honest reissues with little to no difference from the reference, while others deviate a little with black or silver “panda” dials, among others. SeaGull 1963 Reissue Watchesįrom there, the reissue of watches with liking from the 1963 prototype of the watch became popular even to this day. However, there are only less than 2,000 prototypes made for this model. Various prototypes using this movement were made until, in 1965, the military finally certified the watch and later put into production. It also provides a power reserve of about 40 hours. The movement features 19 to 21 jewels, depending on the production. Tianjin used this movement to create their first chronograph movement, the SeaGull ST19. The Tianjin Watch Factory bought the movement from Venus and developed it further. Among those include chronographs from Breitling. It’s a column-wheel design present in most 1940’s and 1950’s chronographs. This timepiece used the calibre 175 from Swiss company Venus. Soon after, the Air Force of the People’s Liberation Army commissioned the company to make an official watch for them. They’re the same company that launched the first-ever Chinese watch in 1961. It’s the Tianjin Watch Factory that made the SeaGull 1963. But before that, let’s take a peek at this watch’s colourful history. Let’s break down the watch’s reissues to find out which one is best for you. With the popularity of this watch, it’s no surprise that it inspired several reissues - all with different advantages. A lot of people might reason with the typical “it’s not Swiss” excuse, but this watch alone should be treated differently. The stigma, however, should be set aside for this watch, given how many people still believe in the timepiece’s appeal and function. But unlike these brands, not everyone trusts SeaGull due to the stereotypical ideas attached to practically anything made in China. Just like the SeaGull 1963 watch, these watches have affiliations to the military. This collectible Chinese mechanical watch is a military chronograph that aligns itself with the likes of Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, Vostok Amphibian, as well as the Rolex Submariner, and Omega Speedmaster. This is partly due to the watch’s Chinese roots. Despite it being a popular choice among lovers of true vintage, its price remains reasonable. It’s not so surprising given its design that dates back to the mid-century, authentic roots to the military, and, of course, its affordability. It’s a cult classic that remains important yet affordable to this day. If you’re a watch collector, you would know that the SeaGull 1963 is one of the most sought-after vintage watches in the industry.
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