Overview
This is a refined example of the ultra-thin 'Lassale' line, representing Seiko's pinnacle of elegant, dressy quartz technology in the early 80s.
Preliminary identification
Seiko Lassale Quartz Tank Watch, Ref. 1230-5289
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Story
In 1981, Seiko acquired the Swiss brand Jean Lassale, a company famous for creating the world's thinnest mechanical movements. Seiko took that Swiss DNA and merged it with their world-leading quartz technology to create a line of watches that were impossibly thin and incredibly accurate.
Maker / Origin
Seiko is the titan of Japanese watchmaking, but the Lassale sub-brand is a unique chapter in their history. By purchasing Jean Lassale, Seiko wasn't just buying a name; they were buying the patents…
Condition & Value
The case shows visible wear to the gold plating on the edges and corners, revealing the base metal beneath. The dial and crystal appear well-preserved, though the strap is a modern replacement. Plating wear on vintage dress watches typically reduces the value by roughly 20-30%.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD