Background of the SLA033 from Seiko

In 1968 Seiko introduced its first 6105 model the 6105-8000/8009. This model, its second professional dive watch arriving 3 years after the celebrated 62MAS, featured a symmetrical case with the now distinctively Seiko 4 o’clock crown. In 1971 this model evolved into the 6105-8110 with its asymmetrical case and distinctive crown guards.

Hodinkee

A full eight years before Apocalypse Now boosted its fame and renown the “Captain Willard” was born.

The 6105

The original 6105-8110 movements were 17 jewel automatics that beat away at 21,600 bph while providing 150m of water resistance. These movements were hacking but did not allow for hand winding and were housed in a 44mm case with a unique twist lock crown design.

'Captain Willard'

During the Vietnam War many American soldiers were commonly issued watches from Hamilton and Benrus and while both were beautifully legible, rugged, and durable pieces these watches struggled in the damp, wet climate of Vietnam due to their 50m water resistance and lack of a locking crown. When American soldiers looked for an alternative, they found the 6105-8110 available in most military PX stores for a relatively affordable price alongside more expensive options from Rolex and Tudor.

The 6105-8110 proved a reliable and durable companion for many soldiers with many of these watches accompanying their soldiers back home after their respective tours were complete. It was this authentic history that led Martin Sheen to choose the 6105-8110 for his character Captain Benjamin Willard’s journey into Cambodia in search of the notorious Colonel Kurtz.

The 6105 series of watches from Seiko were produced from 1968-1977. The SLA033 model that served as inspiration for this drawing was released in 2019 as a limited-edition model and features Seiko’s 8L35 movement operating at 28,800 bph inside of a slightly larger than original 45mm case.

AARON