In 2023, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the iconic 1963 watch, Seagull has released a classic reissue, blending modern watchmaking craftsmanship with the pioneering spirit of aviation. The 1963 Long Sky Edition watch embarks on a new journey with wearers who embrace the spirit of breakthrough and exploration. Now, in 2024, in honor of the Air Force’s bold spirit of soaring through the skies, Seagull unveils the 1963 Long Sky Edition, a masterpiece that remains faithful to its heritage while exploring new horizons. This release reaffirms the collection’s pioneering spirit, embodying courage and the relentless drive for adventure.
From 0 to 1: A Historic Leap
In 1961, Tianjin Watch Factory (now Seagull Watch) received an important task under the code name "304" to develop an aviation chronograph for the Chinese Air Force. The goal was to reduce dependence on imported chronographs, sparking a quiet revolution in China’s watchmaking industry. After tireless research and perseverance, the Tianjin Watch Factory successfully developed the ST3 movement, marking a historic leap from 0 to 1 in creating a homegrown aviation chronograph movement. By September of the same year, five prototype watches were successfully assembled, and their performance nearly matched that of imported timepieces. By the end of 1963, after countless efforts and trials, the second batch of over 30 aviation chronographs was completed, heralding the birth of China’s first aviation chronograph, famously known as the 1963 or D304, a legend in the world of watchmaking.
Innovation in Craftsmanship: A Dream Built on In-House Movements
The new 1963 Long Sky Edition watch draws inspiration from the highly acclaimed original 1963 model, but with a forward-thinking design that embraces bold innovation. The watch is powered by the in-house ST19 manual winding movement, a tribute to the legendary ST3 movement that has been in existence for over 60 years. This modern interpretation optimizes the balance wheel structure and precisely adjusts the regulator and column wheel. With a 42-hour power reserve, the watch maintains its precision and reliability, ensuring the flow of time is never interrupted.
The Return of the "Flying Arrow"
With a bold and cutting-edge aesthetic, the new watch recreates the charm of the original design. The case, crafted from 316L stainless steel, features a modern 40mm diameter, with harmonious proportions and smooth lines that blend seamlessly with high-end watchmaking techniques. The radiant sunburst metal dial shines like a canvas carrying the weight of legendary years. The unique sword-shaped hour and minute hands, paired with the striking red seconds hand, outline the contours of time against the double-digit hour markers, reminiscent of vintage timestamps. For the first time, the exclusive "304" Flying Arrow logo returns to the 12 o'clock position on the dial, infusing the watch with a rich sense of nostalgia, evoking vivid memories of those heroic past decades.
Nine-Star Legend: Dominating the Skies
The 1963 Long Sky Edition seamlessly combines the beauty of vintage aesthetics with innovative design. The case back is engraved with "Tianjin Watch Factory" and the five-pointed star emblem, alongside a special "Nine-Star General" insignia. This is a tribute to Wang Hai, the former Air Force commander who famously shot down and damaged nine enemy aircraft during the Korean War. Additionally, the watch comes with a replica Air Force strap based on the original military design, further enriching the watch with a heroic sense of adventure. The strap also includes a cleverly integrated mini compass, adding both historical depth and practical value.
Combining classic retro design with a modern precision movement, the new Seagull 1963 Long Sky Edition is a unique creation where tradition and modernity collide. It’s not only favored by watch enthusiasts and collectors but also beloved by fans of vintage trends and functional aesthetics. For military enthusiasts, this legendary masterpiece is bound to ignite passion. The iconic 1963 series represents both legend and classic, creation and breakthrough, and serves as one of the best historical witnesses and spiritual legacies of China’s watchmaking industry and Chinese craftsmanship.
