WWR #35: Seiko Bullhead Chronograph ref no. SCEB009

Way back in 1969, in the world of horology, a break through emerged that changed the industry forever.  That breakthrough was quartz technology. And in the background, there was also a first for the pure mechanical aficionados, it was the first automatic chronograph, the 6139 calibre.  And believe it or not, these two"Firsts" came from Seiko.  Although Seiko was not alone on their feat on the first Automatic Chronograph, it just went to show how Seiko is serious in watchmaking, as if you still didn't know that, and that not everything non swiss made is not worth the look.

And following closely to those historical feats is Seiko's release of another automatic chronograph the 6138-0040/0039 that made an impact to the watch aficianado's world back then and today.  And, to marry those two significant stories, Seiko released a faithful tribute to the iconic Bullhead chronograph.  So for our 35th Weekly Watch Recom here at SOT, we recommend the latest Quartz Chronograph from the Seiko Spirit line, the new SCEB009 or the Modern Bullhead.

Well if we compare it millimeter by millimeter, the Modern Bullhead isn't a faithful homage to the iconic 6138 Bullhead, but rather a remake that will adapt to the signs of the times as what the older brother was back then.  The biggest difference is of course the movement.  The new one is powered by the reliable 7T92 quartz chronograph movement which also powers other Seikos in different line-ups.  Why not mechanical?  Well only Seiko could tell but if it were, imagine how much the asking price would be.

Another difference is the chrono registers on the dial.  The new one has the running seconds counter at the bottom replacing the vertical day-date of the old one.  The new date aperture resides near the 5 o'clock marker.

The case difference is still to be investigated.  I haven't seen one in person yet so probably a later update of this article will surely come once its release.

I also like the oyster style bracelet on the new one, though the fish bone bracelet of the old was comfortable and classically stylish, it was a bit flimsy.

There are also four variants to choose from.  Still, I'm a bit conservative myself in terms of color that is why I recommend the 009 version, fits in all dress styles.

                           

 


And lastly, the price tag on the Seiko Japan site is around 26k Yen which converts to around $315, which makes it another bang for the buck chronograph watch.

If you've never had a Seiko chronograph before, this watch will be a good start, along side to accurately guide you good old mechanical Seiko Divers too.