Grand Seiko 6146-8009 Cap Gold, Export Model / DAINI hallmark, Hi-Beat Automatic, Serviced, Manufactured in 1969 (Showa 44)

This is a late-production model of the 61 Grand Seiko from 1969 with cap gold specifications.
This particular piece is a rare reference intended for overseas export (Ref. 6146-8009), denoted by the "9" at the end of the model number.
In contrast to the "CAP GOLD" marking on domestic models, the outer circumference of the case back features the "BASE METAL" engraving unique to export models.
Furthermore, it is a highly rare item of great historical value, as the rotor features the "DAINISEIKOSHA CO., LTD." engraving.

The 61 Grand Seiko, released in 1968, was the first Japanese 10-beat automatic wristwatch.
It is equipped with a next-generation automatic mechanism that successfully adapted Seiko's proprietary ratchet-style "Magic Lever" to a 36,000 vibrations per hour movement.
It features high practicality with a hacking function (second-hand stop), a quick-set date and day function, and manual winding.
The rotor surface has a "ripple" finish, and other components are also meticulously polished, giving it a dignified presence.

The ratchet-style "Magic Lever" is a mechanism that winds the mainspring through the lateral movement of a lever (pawl) driven by the rotor's rotation.
It is characterized by higher winding efficiency compared to mechanisms that use gears for winding.
Because it consists of fewer parts and offers high durability, it is an excellent mechanism that many manufacturers have begun to adopt in recent years.

The case features cap gold (CAP GOLD) specifications.
Because the gold layer is thicker than plating, it has the advantage of being easier to keep the gold layer in beautiful condition.
The gold tone of the case is gentle rather than gaudy, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere of a vintage watch.
Recommended for those looking for an elegant and special Grand Seiko.

Condition

This watch has been overhauled.

It has been fitted with a new genuine Seiko leather strap for your comfort.

The crown is original and features the GS mark.
While it has the firm manual winding feel characteristic of the 61GS, the winding operation is very smooth.

Due to aging, the dial has deepened into a warm champagne gold color that harmonizes beautifully with the cap gold case.
There are no noticeable signs of discoloration, stains, or damage, maintaining a very beautiful condition for a vintage timepiece.
The hands and indices also remain beautiful.

The crystal (plastic) has been polished while preserving its original character.
There are fine scratches that could not be removed by polishing (on the edge at the 10 o'clock side, the 7 o'clock side, and near the center).
Depending on the angle of the light, these scratches may cast shadows onto the dial, but there is no damage to the dial itself.

There are some dings on the tips of the case lugs from normal use, but there is no peeling of the cap gold or exposure of the base metal, and the sharp edge lines unique to the 61GS remain intact.
The GS gold medallion on the case back is also clearly visible.

As this is an older watch, it is not waterproof. Use in environments with high moisture (such as rainy days, washing your face, or wearing it on hot, sweaty days) is strictly prohibited.
As this is a precision instrument, please be careful to avoid drops and strong impacts. Also, please keep it away from objects that emit strong magnetism, such as smartphones, PCs, or magnets on bag clasps.

Operation

Manual winding: With the crown in the normal position, rotate upwards.

Time setting: With the crown pulled out to the second click, rotate downwards.

Date quick-set: With the crown pulled out to the first click, rotate upwards.

Day quick-set: With the crown pulled out to the second click, alternate between "10:30 PM and 1:15 AM".