The Seagull 1963 holds a significant place in horological history as a classic Chinese mechanical timepiece—and this is the year of its 60th anniversary. To celebrate this milestone, Seagull 1963 is issuing a special bronze iteration that is sure to excite enthusiasts.
Check out the Seagull 1963 Moonphase in Bronze 40mm
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For those unfamiliar with the history of the famed pilot watch, the Seagull 1963 was originally produced in China’s Tianjin Watch Factory–founded in 1955 as “WuXing”, or “Five Stars.” However, during Mao Zedong’s ascendance, the company changed its name to “Dong Feng”—meaning “East Wind.”
As early as 1961, the watchmaker was given the task of developing a watch for the Chinese Airforce. In an effort to maintain secrecy, the Tianjin Watch Factory and the government referred to the venture simply as “Project 304.” More than 30 prototypes were developed, designed and produced over a two-year period, culminating in 1963.
A partnership with the Swiss watch company Venus, known for the high-quality of its movements, allowed the Chinese factory to acquire the necessary knowledge and technology to produce chronograph watches. In fact, the Tianjin Watch Factory successfully reverse-engineered the Swiss Venus 175 calibre—a column-wheel chronograph—and developed their own version known as the ST1901 movement. This mechanical movement became the heart of the Seagull 1963.
The Seagull 1963 featured a 38mm stainless steel case, a cream dial with two sub-registers, and Arabic numerals for easy readability.
Other than its bronze case, this commemorative edition from Seagull 1963, is a fairly accurate recreation of that early timepiece. Like its predecessor, the watch comes in a 38mm case with a push/pull crown and classic pump pushers to actuate the central chronograph function. The sub-dial on the left is a running seconds, and the sub-dial on the right is a thirty-minute register. The blue “tail” in the left sub-dial second hand, the red star at twelve, and the Arabic numerals are all touches present in the original design.
The latest edition also uses the ST1901 chronograph movement, visible through a display case back. It has been upgraded to feature 21 jewels (the original had 19) and a swan neck regulator, showcased in blue. I have always thought that the ST1901 was one of the most beautiful hand-wound movements you could acquire in this price range—and it doesn’t disappoint here. The movement has a 3Hz beat rate (21 600bph) and a 42-hour power reserve when fully wound.
It should be noted that this version has also upgraded the crystal from acrylic to curved sapphire, making it much more resistant to scratches.
The watch is 45mm lug to lug and 13 mm thick. It has an 18mm lug width and comes standard on a nylon NATO with striping. While the case is screwed down, the watch is only rated to 30m of water resistance.
SPECS
| Case | Bronze 38mm Diameter 45mm Lug to Lug 13mm Thick 18mm Lug Width Screw Down Case Back Signed Push/Pull Crown 30m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Curved Sapphire Crystal Cream Dial Applied Markers Blued Hands Red Central Chronograph Hand |
| Movement | Seagull ST1901 Hand Wound 21 Jewels 21 600bph 42-Hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Nylon NATO |
Seagull 1963 Bronze 60th Anniversary Edition
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Of Interest
Over the years, the Seagull 1963 watch gained popularity among watch enthusiasts worldwide due to its historical significance, mechanical movement, and vintage-inspired design. Its availability at an affordable price point further contributed to its collectability and appeal. As the demand for the Seagull 1963 watch grew, various versions and editions were introduced. These included different dial variations, case and crystal materials and strap options, providing enthusiasts with a range of choices.
In spite of all this choice, I really feel that the bronze iteration here is perhaps the most attractive. The warmth and colour of the metal really suit the dial. And after only two weeks in my possession, the watch has already begun to develop its own unique patina.
Quibbles
Along with some of the other upgrades, it would be nice to see a bump in the water resistance rating.
Final Thoughts
Today, the Seagull 1963 pilot watch remains an iconic timepiece that embodies the heritage and craftsmanship of Chinese watchmaking. It is highly regarded for its historical significance, mechanical reliability, and retro charm, making it a sought-after piece among collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. I like that this commemorative version does not bear much in the way of fanfare. Other than a line of text on the dial–‘Yi jia Zhi’ (一甲子), meaning ’60th year’–it is simply a solid watch in a new material. Over time, this bronze iteration will take on a patina particular to you and your environment, making the watch truly unique. In addition, unlike many iterations of the Seagull 1963, this model is manufactured in Tainjin, using the original machinery from 1955, making it an authentic offering.
This 60th anniversary edition will be limited to 750 pieces and retail for €399 (approximately $430USD). This includes a two-year warranty and free shipping. For more information, please visit the brand website.
About the author
Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
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