The Seiko 9726A is a vintage quartz analog movement known for its ultra-slim profile, high accuracy, and no-complication design. Introduced in the early 1980s, the 9726A belongs to Seiko’s 9700-series—calibers designed for elegant, minimalist dress watches, where a low height and simple display are essential. With no calendar and no second hand, the 9726A is about as minimal as it gets, and this makes it highly reliable and energy efficient.

Technical Specifications

• Caliber Number: 9726A

• Movement Type: Quartz (analog, step motor)

• Display: Hour and Minute hands only

• Calendar: None

• Jewels: 2

• Battery Type: SR920SW (1.55V silver oxide)

• Battery Life: Approximately 3 years

• Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month

• Movement Dimensions:

  • Diameter: ~26.0 mm

  • Height: ~2.5 mm

• Hand Fitting Sizes:

  • Hour: 1.20 mm

  • Minute: 0.70 mm

Key Features

• Time-only display with two central hands (hour and minute)

• No hacking – the movement does not stop during time adjustment

• No date – removes complexity and reduces movement height

• No second hand – improves battery life and gives a clean dial appearance

• Low power consumption – ideal for long-term wear without frequent battery changes

• Slim profile – fits well in ultra-thin dress watches

This movement was typically used in Seiko watches intended for formal occasions, often paired with gold-plated or stainless steel cases, leather straps, and minimalist dials.

Crown Operation

• Position 0 (pushed in) – Normal timekeeping

• Position 1 (pulled out) – Time adjustment

  • Turn the crown in either direction to move hour and minute hands

  • The movement continues running during adjustment (no hacking)

Battery Replacement and Reset

To replace the battery and reset the circuit:

1. Remove the case back using the proper tool

2. Use plastic tweezers to carefully extract the old SR920SW battery

3. Insert a new battery with correct polarity

4. Locate the AC (All Clear) contact point (usually labeled near the battery)

5. Short the AC contact to the battery’s negative terminal using metal tweezers or a screwdriver for 2–3 seconds

6. Confirm hand movement resumes normally

Always perform the AC reset when installing a new battery to ensure the IC initializes correctly.

Maintenance Tips

• No lubrication is needed for most components—movement is largely dry-running

• Handle the coil block and step rotor with care; both are delicate

• Dust and debris should be blown off using a clean blower

• Avoid exposure to strong magnetic fields as it may interfere with step motor timing

• If malfunction occurs and IC or coil is damaged, replacement of the full movement is generally the best option

Identification and Watch Models

The movement is marked “9726A” and is typically found in thin Seiko quartz dress watches. These models often feature slim rectangular or round cases, flat mineral crystals, and no visible second track on the dial. You may find them under model numbers such as 9726-xxxx, especially in the Seiko Quartz or Seiko Dolce collections.

Conclusion

The Seiko 9726A is a clean, dependable quartz movement designed with simplicity and elegance in mind. Its time-only configuration, combined with a remarkably thin profile, makes it ideal for slim, refined watches. With minimal servicing requirements and Seiko’s reputation for durability, the 9726A continues to be a reliable performer in the world of vintage dress watches.