Seiko Sportsmatic 5 MACV SOG 6619-8060 Automatic Watch Nov 67 Overhauled

During the Vietnam War, MACV-SOG recon teams conducted highly dangerous, cross-border operations in areas like Laos and Cambodia. Because the U.S. government officially denied military presence in these countries, operators could not wear standard-issue American military uniforms, dog tags, or gear. If captured, they needed “sterile” or “non-attributable” equipment to maintain plausible deniability.

Conrad “Ben” Baker, the head of the Counter Insurgency Support Office (CISO) based in Okinawa, Japan, was tasked with sourcing this custom and untraceable hardware. Rather than buying expensive Swiss watches like Rolex, Baker utilized black budget funds to procure standard, civilian Japanese Seiko automatic watches. They cost the military roughly $6 to $8 each at the time.

With a fresh overhaul, set lever, gaskets, and a compass, you won’t lose your way with this rare beauty.