Seagull 1963 | 40mm

In 1961, the Tianjin Watch Factory gained fame in China for crafting the first military watch. They were then entrusted with a significant task – creating the inaugural Chinese aviation watch for the Chinese Liberation Army Air Force, known as Project "d304."

To accomplish this, they journeyed to Switzerland, securing patents and machinery Swiss chronograph manufacturer Venus for the Venus 175 column wheel chronograph.

After years of experimentation, production of the official Chinese Air Force watch commenced in 1962 and concluded in 1963, inspiring its name. Today's Seagull 1963 stands as a modern vintage tribute to this historically vital timepiece once worn by Chinese Air Force pilots.

When you acquire a Seagull 1963, you're not just getting a remarkable timepiece; you're also obtaining a tangible piece of historical significance for your wrist.

The ST19 movement, paying homage to the revered Swiss Venus 175 movement, has a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century. Crafted by the Tianjin Watch Factory using the original machinery from the fifties and fully assembled by hand, it features 21 jewels and a robust 42-hour power reserve.

What makes the upgraded Seagull ST19 movement special is its Blue Swan Neck Regulator. The swan neck regulator allows for better finetuning of the watch movement, ensuring precise timekeeping.

The hand-winding ST1901 mechanical chronograph operates smoothly at a frequency of 21,600 beats per hour, with a power reserve of around 42 hours on a full wind. For collectors who appreciate a blend of tradition and accuracy, the Seagull ST19 is a must-have, representing a piece of history in a carefully crafted timepiece.

Our commitment to excellence extends beyond the meticulous development of our iconic Seagull 1963 watches; it encompasses safeguarding your timepiece throughout its journey. From the watch factory to your doorstep, we prioritise protection during shipment.

The packaging is purposefully designed, with the outer sleeve serving as a first line of defence for your Seagull 1963 watch. Nestled within this sleeve is a vintage tin box, meticulously lined with foam to shield the delicate ST1901 chronograph movement from any potential shocks.

Within the tin box, the Seagull 1963 chronograph watch awaits, adorned with its distinctive NATO strap. Accompanying your timepiece is a special tag, a warranty card, and a manual providing insights into operating the ST1901 chronograph functions and winding the ST19 movement.

As a final touch, discover a card featuring a unique QR code, allowing you to verify the authenticity of your Seagull 1963 watch. Because at Seagull, the journey of your timepiece is as significant as its impeccable craftsmanship.