One for the die-hard Tuna Fans - A very rare and ultra collectible Seiko Grandfather Golden Tuna, Model Ref: 7549-7009 in superb vintage condition, c.1970s

 Seiko’s history began in 1881 when Kintarō Hattori opened a watch and jewellery shop in Tokyo, later founding the Seikosha factory in 1892. The brand quickly became a pioneer in timekeeping, producing Japan’s first wristwatch in 1913. Seiko revolutionised the industry in 1969 with the Astron, the world’s first quartz wristwatch, sparking the global “quartz revolution.” Known for innovation, reliability and exceptional value, Seiko continues to shape modern horology across dive watches, chronographs and high-accuracy movements.

What's on Offer

We are genuinely thrilled to offer this Seiko “Golden Tuna” 7549-7009, an icon in the world of professional diving watches and one of the rarest and most collectible Tunas ever produced. Launched in the late 1970s as Seiko’s first quartz saturation diver, the 7549 series already has serious pedigree — but the gold-plated titanium shroud version was produced in far smaller numbers, making surviving examples remarkably scarce. Collectors absolutely hunt these down.

This example features the signature oversized 49mm titanium case with its original gold-tone shroud, created to withstand the brutal conditions of saturation diving without requiring a helium escape valve. The matte black dial remains wonderfully crisp, framed by the bold shroud and furnished with chunky, lume-filled hands and indexes — all designed for instant legibility at depth. ( You will note from our pictures that there is a tiny piece of lume missing on one of the hands - to be expected for a watch of this age).The screw-down crown, unidirectional bezel and original rubber strap complete the unmistakable Tuna aesthetic.

Condition is very good for a professional 600m diver of this age, with honest signs of wear that only add authenticity. The case remains structurally sound, the gold plating has aged evenly, and the legendary 7549 quartz movement provides the bulletproof reliability that made these watches favourites among commercial divers.

A genuinely rare opportunity to acquire one of Seiko’s most desirable and historically significant tool watches — a must-have for any serious Tuna or vintage Seiko collector.

The watch has recently returned from a clean and service by our watchmaker, when it was also fitted with a new crown and tube, so you should have no issues with it for the foreseeable future!