Stowa Seatime PUW 1561

Stowa Seatime — First Impression

The 1969 Stowa Seatime is a purposeful diver’s timepiece that marries German tool-watch pragmatism with refined mid-century style. Its 38.0 mm cushion case presents strong wrist presence without excess bulk, while the domed crystal and glossy black dial supply period charm and high contrast. Inside ticks the automatic PUW 1561, a reliable movement from Pforzheim that underpins precise, everyday timekeeping. With drilled lugs, a rotating bezel, and a balanced dial layout, this Seatime delivers the kind of versatility collectors seek in a wearable historic wristwatch.

Seatime — Glossy Black Diver’s Dial with Luminous Indices

The dial is deep black with a glossy finish that amplifies legibility under changing light. Long rectangular hour markers are filled with aged luminous material and anchored by Arabic numerals at the quarters for instant orientation. A crisp minute track hugs the periphery, while the framed date aperture at 6 o’clock integrates neatly into the layout. The “Stowa Seatime” signature sits beneath 12 o’clock, with “Automatic 25 Rubis” above 6—both cleanly printed and period-correct.

Seatime PUW 1561 — Baton Hands

Wide, lume-filled baton hour and minute hands provide authoritative readability typical of late-1960s dive watches. The slender central seconds hand extends to the minute track and carries a luminous tip for at-a-glance confirmation in low light. Proportions are carefully judged: the minute hand reaches the outer scale, the hour hand terminates at the markers, and the sweep seconds keeps the display dynamic yet uncluttered.

Cushion-Profile Chrome-Plated Case

The cushion case measures 38.0 mm across with a compact 43.0 mm lug-to-lug, striking a balance between presence and comfort. Chrome-plated surfaces deliver a bright, mirror finish that frames the dial, while the case flanks exhibit tool-like solidity. The bidirectional bezel features a black insert with bold white numerals and a luminous pip at 12 for elapsed-time tracking. A domed crystal adds pleasing distortion at the edges, reinforcing the watch’s vintage character.

Seatime PUW 1561 — Crown

The crown at 3 o’clock is coin-edged for secure grip and sized appropriately for routine setting and winding via the automatic unit. Its profile sits close to the case to minimize snagging—an era-accurate choice that complements the Seatime’s practical diving intent.

Strap

Fitted to an interchangeable 18.0 mm strap system (shown on a NATO-style textile), the watch wears securely and suits both casual and sport contexts. Drilled lugs make strap changes straightforward, encouraging experimentation with rubber, canvas, or leather while maintaining the timepiece’s tool-watch heritage.

Automatic Movement PUW 1561

Powering the Seatime is the German-made PUW 1561 automatic movement from Deutsche Uhren-Rohwerke (Pforzheim). The caliber features central seconds, a date complication, and shock protection, with a full-rotor winding system that efficiently maintains reserve during daily wear. Operating at 21,600 vph (3 Hz) with 25 jewels, the 1561 is prized for robust construction and straightforward serviceability—qualities that translate into stable accuracy and longevity when properly maintained.

Heritage of the Stowa Seatime in the Golden Era of Dive Design

Emerging at the height of the recreational diving boom, the Seatime embodies late-1960s priorities: high-visibility displays, strong water-ready cases, and dependable mechanical engineering. While peers from Swiss makers dominated headlines, Stowa’s German approach delivered clarity, durability, and excellent value. This reference, with its cushion geometry and luminous architecture, captures that moment—now increasingly collectible among enthusiasts who appreciate vintage European watchmaking beyond the usual suspects. Explore our Men’s vintage watches with 1969 cushion-case diver or browse our Automatic vintage watches with PUW 1561 caliber for related examples.

Stowa Seatime — Condition, Originality, Warranty & Worldwide Shipping

Fully serviced and ready to wear, this watch will provide reliable performance for years to come. The piece remains fully operational and retains its original watch components, including dial, hands, case, crown, bezel, and movement, with honest age that underscores its authenticity. A 12-month warranty and worldwide shipping make this Seatime a confident acquisition for collectors seeking a wearable, historically grounded diver from vintage German watchmaking.