The Bell-Matic featuring the rare alarm function, was released in 1966.  At the time there were other alarm watches in the market place, mostly hand wound and dominated by the generic AS 1475 and the 21600 bph version,  AS 1930. These movements were also “re-badged” and used in brands from the Soviet Poljot to Tissot, Bulova, Girard Perregaux and several more.

With automatic wind, day/date display, quick date change and modern syling including colourful dials, it wasn’t long before the Seiko Bell-Matic  dominated  this very small niche in the market .

Unlike the chronographs that had one, two or three sub dials, the Bell-Matic was not very distinctive; the alarm indicator is on the rotating ring around the dial and doesn’t stand out much. The only real distinguishing feature is the extra button at 2 o’clock. This sets the alarm on when out and doubles as a quick set for the date when depressed.

Like most Seikos of the period the Bell-matic is self winding with no auxiliary hand winding. But there are two springs, the mainspring for the watch and an alarm spring for the alarm. The alarm spring is wound manually with the main crown.

The 4006 is a tough reliable movement that was produced from about 1966 until around 1978 when about the only competition left was the emerging digitals which incorporated an alarm alongside a multitude of functions.

This gold plated example is all original and in near mint condition. The dial is iridescent brown with a striking sunburst affect that I couldn’t photograph. The bracelet, also original, with a three fold clasp that is signed.

While in production, Bell-Matics were at the high of the commercial end of the market, (if that makes sense) I have a 1977 Seiko catalogue and this watch is listed and they where about 25% more expensive than the Seiko divers “turtle” and about three times as much as a basic Seiko 5 automatic. Today only good examples are of interest but they are nowhere near the Seiko chronographs in popularity.