Seiko 6138-0011 Yachtman UFO Chronograph

The Seiko 6138-0011, popularly known as the 'UFO' due to its distinctively large, circular flying saucer-shaped case, is a legendary vintage automatic chronograph from the 1970s. Originally marketed by Seiko and its distributors as the 'Yachtsman,' it became one of the most recognizable pieces of the era despite lacking specific nautical features. Its design is celebrated for its 44mm stainless steel case with hooded lugs, which allows it to sit comfortably even on smaller wrists.

Technologically, this model was significant as it featured the caliber 6138 movement, which was a successor to the 6139. It included a column wheel and a vertical clutch system—high-end features for its time—and was one of the first automatic chronographs to offer both a 12-hour and 30-minute register along with hand-winding and quick-set day/date capabilities. Many of these watches were produced entirely in-house by Seiko in Japan, from the movement components to the lubricating oils.

Today, the Seiko UFO remains a highly collectible piece for vintage watch enthusiasts. The Seiko brand, founded by Kintarō Hattori in 1881, continues to be owned by the Seiko Group, maintaining its status as one of the few fully integrated watch manufacturers in the world. Its legacy for innovation, from mechanical excellence to pioneering the quartz revolution, is personified in these robust daily-wear tool watches.