The Seiko 8346A is a reliable quartz analog movement designed for precise and consistent timekeeping. Produced during the 1980s and early 1990s, this caliber embodies Seiko’s engineering expertise in delivering durable and low-maintenance quartz watch movements. Known for its straightforward functionality, the 8346A typically features standard time display with hour, minute, and seconds hands and often includes a date complication.

Technical Specifications

• Caliber Number: 8346A

• Movement Type: Quartz (Analog)

• Display:

  • Hours, minutes, and seconds hands

  • Date window (commonly at 3 o’clock)

• Accuracy: Approximately ±20 seconds per month

• Battery Type: SR920SW (1.55V silver oxide)

• Battery Life: Approximately 2 to 3 years

• Jewels: None (electronic quartz movement)

• Crown Positions:

  • Position 0: Normal operation

  • Position 1: Date adjustment

  • Position 2: Time adjustment

Key Features

Accurate Timekeeping

The 8346A uses a quartz oscillator to maintain consistent and precise time, typically accurate within ±20 seconds per month, making it well-suited for everyday wear.

Date Function

The movement includes a date complication, usually displayed through a window at the 3 o’clock position. The date can be quickly adjusted via the crown for ease of use.

Efficient Battery Use

Powered by an SR920SW silver oxide battery, the movement achieves efficient power consumption, allowing for a battery lifespan of two to three years.

Operating Instructions

Time Setting

1. Pull the crown to the second click (Position 2).

2. Rotate the crown clockwise or counterclockwise to set the correct time.

3. Push the crown back to Position 0 to resume normal operation.

Date Setting

1. Pull the crown to the first click (Position 1).

2. Rotate the crown clockwise to change the date.

3. Avoid setting the date between 9 PM and 2 AM to prevent damage to the date-change mechanism.

4. Push the crown back to Position 0 after adjustment.

Battery Replacement and Maintenance

• Replace the battery with an SR920SW silver oxide battery when the watch shows signs of power loss.

• Typical battery life ranges from 2 to 3 years depending on use.

• Professional battery replacement is recommended to maintain water resistance.

• No reset procedure is typically required after battery replacement, but the time and date settings should be checked.

Maintenance Recommendations

• No mechanical lubrication is needed due to the electronic quartz design.

• Avoid exposure to strong magnetic fields and shocks.

• Clean the watch regularly to maintain appearance and performance.

• Water-resistant models should be pressure tested periodically.

Watches Featuring the 8346A

The 8346A movement has been installed in:

• Various Seiko quartz watches during the 1980s and early 1990s.

• Timepieces focusing on simple and accurate analog timekeeping with date function.

• Models emphasizing practicality and durability.

Summary Table

Conclusion

The Seiko 8346A quartz movement offers straightforward, reliable timekeeping with an easy-to-read date display. Its efficient battery usage, minimal maintenance requirements, and consistent accuracy make it an excellent choice for everyday analog watches. Reflecting Seiko’s longstanding tradition of quality and precision, the 8346A remains a trusted movement for durable, classic quartz timepieces.