Introduced in 1983, the Seiko 7A28 series made history as the world’s first analog quartz chronograph — and the 7A28-7029 remains one of the most distinctive models. Finished in a vibrant yellow-gold tone, it represents a bold blend of 1980s style and Seiko’s pioneering engineering.

At its heart is the 7A movement, an all-metal, 15-jewel quartz caliber designed to be serviced and regulated much like a mechanical watch. Unlike the disposable quartz modules of today, the 7A was built with longevity in mind, making these watches highly collectible.

Chronograph Functions:

• Standard start/stop/reset with smooth tactile pushers
• Split-timer feature via third pusher at 10 o’clock
• Subdial at 3 o’clock tracking 1/20th of a second
• Hands reset through a precise “robotic ballet,” powered by three stepper motors

Design Details:

The 7A28-7029 features a striking sunburst gold dial with applied stick markers, golden chamfers, and aged tritium lume that has mellowed into warm butterscotch tones. Sunken registers and a stepped chapter ring add depth and dimensionality, catching light beautifully.

Wearing the Watch:

Many surviving examples show signs of wear, especially on the gold PVD bracelet, though these watches pair equally well with a quality leather strap. Beyond this reference, the 7A family includes iconic models — from the steel 7A28-7020 worn by James Bond in A View to a Kill, to the futuristic 7A28-7000 seen in Aliens, to the rugged UK military-issue 7A28-7120.

Key Features:

• Case Diameter: 36.5mm

• Winding Type: Quartz (battery-powered)

• Dial: Gold with three sub-dials (minutes, seconds, 1/10 sec)

• Case Material: Base metal with stainless steel back

• Movement: Seiko Quartz Chronograph

• Tachymeter scale on chapter ring

• Reference: TA28-7029

• Strap: Aftermarket leather strap in caramel brown

• Water Resistance (as marked): 20M (not guaranteed on vintage pieces)