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Seagull 1963 Chronograph Reissue Brings China’s First Military Watch to Global Market
Globenewswire· 2025-08-05 18:30
Core Viewpoint - Seagull Watch Group has reissued China's first military chronograph, the Seagull 1963, which combines historical significance, advanced engineering, and affordability, gaining global recognition [1][11]. Group 1: Historical Context - Project 304 was initiated in 1961 by the Chinese Ministry of Light Industry to reduce dependence on imported chronographs for the Air Force [4]. - The Tianjin Watch Factory, now known as Seagull Watch Group, developed the first military-spec column wheel chronograph movement, resulting in the "Type 304" wristwatch [4][6]. - The original chronograph was issued to Chinese Air Force pilots, marking a significant achievement in China's industrial self-sufficiency [6]. Group 2: Product Features - The Seagull 1963 features a 38mm stainless steel case, vintage cream dial with red and gold markers, syringe-style hands, and a domed hesalite crystal [6]. - It is powered by the hand-wound ST19 column wheel chronograph movement, a direct descendant of the original Project 304 caliber [6]. Group 3: Market Positioning - The Seagull 1963 is priced at approximately one-tenth of an equivalent vintage-inspired Swiss column-wheel chronograph, making it highly accessible [8]. - The watch is recognized for its authentic history as a reissue of a pivotal Cold War military instrument, technical merit with sophisticated architecture, and visual appeal with a vintage design [9]. Group 4: Industry Impact - The Seagull 1963 is considered essential for collectors interested in significant milestones in global watchmaking, showcasing China's capability in complex horological challenges [11]. - Its popularity suggests a potential shift in perceptions regarding accessible, historically significant mechanical watches [11].