Seiko Ashtray 7C46-6009 and 7C46-6010, a Pair of Ultimate ’80s Classics

Today, we’re going on a short trip back to the ’80s. To a specific moment when these two Seiko watches saw the light of day, making the decade additionally significant in the history of horology.

Why are these Titanium divers worth mentioning among so many other watches made in the 80s?

The material used to make them first comes to mind. But that’s not the primary reason. Although still not a standard feature, titanium was by no means a novelty regarding materials used for watchmaking. For example, Seiko has been using it for more than a decade.

The thing that separates these two watches from the offer back then and a feature that makes them prominent even today is their unusual looks. After all, that’s where they got their nickname in the first place.

Full Titanium Seiko Diver 7C46-6010 Ashtray resembling bezel, the inspiration behind the nickname

And a well-chosen one. Even today, when you mention Seiko Ashtray, those familiar with the Seiko catalog immediately know which models are in question. But, for those who still don’t, here’s a short story that will introduce you to them firsthand.

When you see them for the first time, it immediately becomes clear where they got their nickname “Ashtray.” The rounded edges, the notches, the sturdiness, the indestructibility, and unidirectional titanium bezels embody the office ashtray typical of the time.

That’s all the titanium Seiko Ashtray 7C46-6009 features. Everything else on this particular model is made of stainless steel.

The Futuristic appearance of Seiko Ashtrays rounded by carefully chosen watch straps, Left: Seiko 7C46-6009 with a Ribbed Nylon Watch Strap; Right: Seiko 7C46-6010 with a FKM Quick Release Rubber Watch Strap

Another thing that differentiates it from the 6010 is the touches of yellow on the bezel markings, dial, and second hand that give an elegant contrast to a soft matte all-black dial. The dominant hour and minute hands and large crown additionally complement the sport style design of this great-looking diver watch.

On the other hand, despite being of the same strapping design, Seiko Ashtray 7C46-6010 gives a somewhat different appeal. Entirely made of titanium, it’s lighter than the 6009. In addition, the all-black dial is contrasted with white hands and markings. The outcome: it yields a more business-style appearance.

The trusty 7C46 quartz movement inside Seiko Ashtray 7C46-6010 and 6009 Diver Watches

Naturally, 7C46-6009 and 7C46-6010 have many features in common. The force behind their precise operation is the well-known 7C46 quartz movement. Sturdy and anti-magnetic, it’s proven capable of enduring the heavier hands that the Ashtrays feature and withstand a wide range of temperatures.

The masculine appearance of the Seiko Titanium Diver 7C46-6010 fortified by a Retro Razor QR Strap

The latter is an essential feature for diving watches, particularly those capable of undergoing 600m dives, such as 6009 and 6010. In addition, a slightly oval crystal glass, a screw-back case, and a 15.5mm thick, 45mm in diameter case reinforce the manly appearance of the Ashtray watches.

The screw case back of Seiko Professional Titanium 7C46-6010

On the other hand, regardless of their hefty appearance, these vibrant watches are easy to wear and sit comfortably on wrists of any size. Another great thing about them is their appearance is timeless. They look equally attractive nowadays as they did in the 80s. And they effortlessly combine with different watchstraps available, expanding their wearability and combination with varying styles of clothing.

Various application possibilities of Ashtrays. Left: Seiko Diver 7C46-6009 with Military Green Ribbed Nylon Strap; Right: Seiko Diver 7C46-6010 paired with Black Diver FKM Rubber Strap

Seiko Ashtrays are increasingly hard to find thanks to their intriguing aesthetics and the fact they were in production only for about eight years. However, if you keep an open eye on the second-hand markets, it’s still not an entirely impossible task.

They do occasionally come around, even in almost pristine condition.Naturally, it’s always for a high price, especially compared to the original list price.

However, owning either 6009 or 6010, or both for that matter, is a priceless investment for those who fell forever in love with their original features.

Timeless contemporary design of Seiko Titanium 7C46-6010 complimented by Rollball version II QR Quick Release Watch Strap

External Reference

• The Seiko Ashtray Series - Fantastic 80’s Titanium Divers
• 1987 Seiko Professional Diver's 600m 'Ashtray' Ref. 7C46-6009