Vintage Seiko Watches and Perfect Straps

I’ve always found vintage Seiko watches incredibly fun and rewarding to collect. What really excites me is the huge variety of models—they come in all sorts of interesting case shapes and dial colors. For me, they’re an easy and inspiring choice if you’re just starting your own vintage Seiko journey. Most vintage Seikos I’ve come across have case diameters between 34mm and 36mm, and the lug widths are generally either 18mm or 19mm. Those sizes make it easy to find great straps because they’re such a standard fit, like the ones we offer here at Quaint & Collectible.

How I Pair My Vintage Seikos with Straps

Picking the right strap is key to bringing out the personality of each watch. I want to share some of my favourite strap pairings with the vintage Seikos in my collection, focusing on those 18mm and 19mm lug widths because they just fit so well.

Seiko King Quartz with an 18mm Epsom Brown Strap

Take my vintage Seiko King Quartz, for instance. It has a yellow gold case and an 18mm lug width, which made me want something structured but classic. I went with a tan Epsom strap, which has a nice texture that really plays off the brushed finish on the case. To me, this pairing brings out a refined, timeless look that vintage Seiko collectors appreciate.

A Rare 1960s Seiko Electronic 31700 with a 18mm Black Alran Strap

Another watch I hold dear is a rare Seiko Electronic 31700 from the 1960s. It’s got this unusual horseshoe-shaped case and integrated lugs that bend downward a bit—reminds me a lot of an Omega Speedmaster in style. The dial is clean white and classic, so I paired it with a black Alran strap in 19mm. I feel like the black strap really emphasizes the watch’s sleek vintage character without overpowering it.

My Classic Seiko Lord Marvel 36000 with a 19mm Chestnut Tan Smooth Calf Strap

I also want to highlight my Seiko Lord Marvel 36000, which has a sturdier, beefier yellow gold case compared to the others—definitely a watch that stands out on the wrist. Its dial has a slightly oxidized caramel color that gives it this warm, vintage vibe. To complement that warmth, I picked a smooth calf leather strap in chestnut tan. The soft, buttery texture of the leather echoes the rich tone of the dial perfectly, making the watch feel both elegant and inviting.

18mm and 19mm Watch Straps for Vintage Seiko

In my experience, one of the best things about vintage Seiko is that their 18mm and 19mm lug widths open up plenty of options when it comes to straps. A properly fitting strap not only secures your watch but enhances its personality. Whether you’re into leather, textured Epsom, or even more unique materials, choosing the right width and style makes all the difference. At Quaint & Collectible, we focus on offering a curated range that perfectly matches these classic watches.

If you’re starting your vintage Seiko collection (or expanding it), I truly believe finding the right strap can completely transform your wearing experience. I encourage you to explore straps made specifically for 18mm and 19mm lug widths—you’d be surprised how much a good strap can elevate your vintage Seiko.