From its humble beginnings to its unexpected journey into space, this watch has become a legend among enthusiasts. Now, as Seiko prepares to relaunch this iconic piece, we invite you to delve into its fascinating history and anticipate its triumphant return.

The Seiko ‘Pogue’ Story

The Seiko 'Pogue' legend began in September 1972 when NASA astronaut Colonel William Pogue purchased a Seiko 6139 for $64 on layaway at Ellington AFB. Little did he know that this watch would accompany him on the Skylab 4 mission from November 16, 1973, to February 8, 1974, inadvertently making history as a space icon.

Col. William Pogue (background) wearing his Seiko on one wrist and his Speedmaster on the other. Commander Gerald P. Carr (foreground) wearing his Movado Datachron. Image source: NASA

Contrary to popular belief, not all NASA astronauts in the 1970s wore Omega Speedmasters. Colonel Pogue received his official timepiece only after completing his Skylab training, during which he relied on the Seiko as his primary timing device. When preparing for the mission, Pogue made the fateful decision to take both his trusted training watch and the official mission watch. This choice is now commemorated on November 16th, unofficially known as 'International Pogue Day.'

The story remained untold until 2006 when David Bruno, a watch enthusiast from New Jersey, uncovered that Colonel Pogue had used a Seiko Chronograph on the Skylab mission to time thruster burns. This revelation was significant: the Seiko had become the first automatic chronograph in space, predating the NASA-sanctioned Sinn 142 chronograph by a decade. Further details emerged, including that the Seiko was not officially approved by NASA and that Pogue wore it on his left wrist, with the Speedmaster on his right.

Colonel William Pogue prior to the Skylab 4 mission

The Seiko performed flawlessly throughout the mission, and Pogue continued to wear it until 2003. On October 7, 2008, the watch was auctioned by Heritage Auctions, raising $5,975 for the Astronaut Scholarship Foundation. Colonel Pogue passed away on March 3, 2014, at 84, leaving behind a legacy that forever intertwined his name with this remarkable timepiece.

The 2024 Seiko Prospex Pogue Speedtimer 1969 Reissue Watch

In 2024, Seiko relaunched this iconic timepiece, now known as the Seiko Prospex Pogue Speedtimer 1969 Reissue Watch. This modern reissue pays homage to the original while incorporating contemporary advancements in watchmaking technology.

Design and Features

Case Size: 41.4mm

Dial: Under a curved sapphire crystal glass lies a vivid yellow dial, characteristic of the 6139 original. The second hand and sundial minute hand at 6 o'clock are bright red, accurately recreating the 'Pogue.'

Luminescence: The watch features 12 spots of Lumibrite on the wide vintage-style indices, ensuring legibility in dark conditions.

Bezel: It retains the original style with a blue and red aluminum bezel featuring a tachymeter and a chronometer second scale on the inside dial ring.

Bracelet: The bracelet tapers from the lugs to the buckle, maintaining the classic design.

Movement

Caliber: The reissue is powered by the V192 solar chronograph caliber, which charges in both natural and artificial light.

Accuracy: The movement is accurate to +/- 15 seconds per month.

Power Reserve: It has a power reserve of 6 months when fully charged.

As we eagerly await the release of the Seiko Prospex Pogue Speedtimer 1969 Reissue Watch in August 2024, don't miss your chance to be among the first to wear this iconic timepiece on your wrist. Sign up now and prepare to embark on your own timekeeping adventure, inspired by the unexpected journey of Colonel Pogue's trusty Seiko.