This Watch

Dive into the daring design of the 1970s with this exceptional Seiko Bell-Matic, Reference 4006-6031. Dating specifically to June 1974, this watch represents Seiko’s bold venture into mechanical complications and a distinctive era of watch design.

The Bell-Matic is renowned for being Seiko's only mechanical automatic alarm watch. This model features the iconic cushion/tonneau-shaped stainless steel case and a striking dial, complemented by a rotating inner bezel used to set the alarm time. The unique mechanical alarm sounds with a charming tring—a distinct and nostalgic chime powered by a dedicated spring.

The movement—the Caliber 4006A—is automatic and features a day/date complication with a quick-set date function operated by the pusher at 2 o’clock. This particular piece is presented on a sporty black leather racing-style strap, giving it a fantastic vintage driving watch aesthetic that is perfect for the modern collector.

A true mechanical marvel and a fantastic piece of Japanese horological history, this Bell-Matic is ready to wear and enjoy.

Extra Points

Seikos history began in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori established the K. Hattori retail and repair store. In 1892 Seikosha was established making wall clocks. 1895 saw the production of their first pocket watch. 1913 saw the launch of their first wristwatch, the Laurel. In 1924 the first Seiko was manufactured. Daini Seikosha (now Seiko Instruments Inc.) was established in 1937. Seiko was listed on the Tokyo stock exchange in 1949. The Suwa factory became independent and formed Suwa Seikosha Co., Ltd. (now Seiko Epson Corporation in 1959). In 1956 Seiko launched Marvel as their first true in-house made watch they continued to make this watch until 1959. Japan’s first chronograph watch was introduced for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics it was called Seiko Crown Chronograph a monopusher. Not stopping there Seiko launched Japans first true divers watch the Seiko Diver’s 150M fitted with the automatic Caliber 6217 which later was given the nickname “62MAS” by collectors. The company name was changed to the Seiko Corporation in 1990. Innovation at Seiko continues today with GPS Solar watches. 

 What we think

The Ingenuity of the Bell-Matic: The Seiko Bell-Matic, first introduced in 1966, holds a unique place in watch history as the world's first automatic watch with a centrally-pivoted full rotor alarm mechanism. Earlier automatic alarm watches (like the JLC Memovox) used a bumper rotor. The Bell-Matic also employed a clever dual-barrel system: one mainspring for timekeeping (wound automatically by the rotor) and a separate mainspring for the alarm (wound manually via the crown), ensuring the watch kept running even after the alarm sounded. To circumvent high US import tariffs on watches with over 17 jewels, Seiko eventually reduced the jewel count of the 4006 caliber, making the Bell-Matic an accessible and iconic alarm watch globally. The pusher at 2 o’clock both arms the alarm and quick-sets the date, showcasing Seiko’s typical ingenuity.

The Bell-Matic is arguably the most fun vintage Seiko to own. The internal rotating alarm ring adds a layer of depth to the dial, and the mechanical chime is a wonderful conversation starter. Paired with a racing strap, the 4006-6031 really leans into its 70s swagger and offers incredible value for a complicated vintage automatic.