Seiko "Pogue" Chronograph - Ref. 6139-6002
In 1972, NASA astronaut Colonel William Pogue bought a Seiko 6139 for $64 on layaway at Ellington AFB. A year later, he wore it on the Skylab 4 mission (Nov 1973–Feb 1974), making the 6139 the first automatic chronograph in space. At its core was the Suwa Seiko 6139 movement -the world’s first automatic chronograph- developed from the caliber 61 used in Seiko 5 Sports, the 6105 “Captain Willard” diver, the 61GS Grand Seiko series, and even the 6117 world timers. The 6139 was engineered by Toshihiko Ohki, the mind behind the 1964 Olympic chronographs and the caliber 61 itself. Pogue praised its rotating inner bezel for timing thruster burns, and the watch performed flawlessly in orbit. Famously, he also staged the first astronaut strike, demanding less work and more time to reflect on the universe. Pogue wore his Seiko until 2003, often over his Rolex, cementing its legacy as a true space icon.
Maker: Seiko
Model: 6139 'Pogue' Automatic Chronograph
Reference: 6139
Serial no.: 742381
Year of Production: April, 1977
Case dimensions: 47mm lug-to-lug
Movement: 6139 Automatic
Power reserve: approx 40hrs
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel bracelet (with extra link)
Lug Width: 19mm
Original Box/Papers: no
Description: See above... The Pogue is one of the most sought-after Seiko watches, partly for its mythical history, partly for its beauty, partly because it is a great watch. Shows some signs of wear, but is in otherwise good condition.
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