Why This Watch Matters

Covert ops, counter insurgency, "studies and observation" – there is a lot to take in with this Seiko 5 meant to be "non-attributable" for U.S. service members.

The Full Story

Ben Baker was the head of the Counter Insurgency Support Office (CISO) during the Vietnam War. This office was tasked with supplying a number of "sterile" or "non-attributable" items for members of various teams within the Military Assistance Command- Vietnam (MACV) Studies and Observation Group (SOG). From cameras to knives and, obviously, watches, their service members needed equipment without GI stock numbers or obvious U.S. ties, giving them plausible deniability if captured in action. The story of Ben Baker, these Seiko watches, and the work of SOG operatives is told by Frank Greco in his book entitled Running Recon: A Photo Journey with SOG Special Ops Along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

The resulting Seiko 5s ordered by Ben Baker have become very sought after in the vintage military and Seiko collecting communities. Within Seiko at this time, the design was really a departure. Rarely did the brand use luminous Arabic numerals like the ones we see here. It is believed the design was specific to the military use these watches were bound to see. Members of the U.S. military were either issued these watches or instructed to purchase them at the PX before a covert op – the cost to the serviceman was around $8.

Our example is in honest condition, especially the chrome plated case, and even comes complete on its Seiko bracelet with a clasp engraved "VIETNAM 68-69 PINA" which is a nice little touch.

The Fine Print

Maker: Seiko
Model: 5 "MACV-SOG"
Reference: 6119-8100
Year: Late 1960s
Case No: 866774
Material: Chrome plated case, stainless steel caseback
Dimensions: 36.5mm diameter; 11mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Seiko, self-winding, caliber 6119
Bracelet/Strap: Seiko, stainless steel, bracelet
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No

What We Love And What You Should Know

Things We Love:

- Starburst grey dial finish
- Excellent lume patina
- Vietnam special operations history
- Engraved clasp on Seiko bracelet

Things To Know:

- Hands are likely replacements
- Wear to chrome plated case

This Seiko 5 is overall in good, honest condition. The case is strong with scratches. The chrome plating shows wear around the edges and on the back. All of the engravings on the caseback are clearly visible.

The dial is well-preserved and overall nice. The lume on the hour markers and the hands show a desirable pale yellow/ greenish color throughout. The hands are probably replacements. The hour markers have developed patina.

The crystal has some scratches. The bracelet is in good condition with some scratches, a bit of stretch between the links, and an engraving on the clasp reading "VIETNAM 68-69 PINA." The case, dial, movement, and bracelet are all signed. The crystal has some light scratches and appears to be a later replacement. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.

Seiko Brand Landing