Seiko 4522A - Parts List
Seiko 4522A – Technical Guide
General Overview
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Caliber: Seiko 4522A
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Type: Manual-winding mechanical movement
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Manufacturer: Daini Seikosha (Seiko Instruments Inc.)
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Production Period: 1968–1974
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Movement Family: 45GS
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Primary Use: Grand Seiko 45GS models with date function
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Notable Feature: High-beat, hacking, and chronometer-certified
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Winding System | Manual winding only |
| Jewels | 25 |
| Frequency | 36,000 A/h (10 beats per second) |
| Power Reserve | ~40 hours |
| Shock Protection | Diashock |
| Hacking Seconds | Yes |
| Calendar | Date (non-quickset) |
| Movement Diameter | ~26.0 mm |
| Movement Thickness | ~4.5 mm |
| Finish | High-grade Grand Seiko polishing and brushing |
Functional Description
The Seiko 4522A is a refined, high-frequency hand-wound movement used in Grand Seiko’s 45GS Chronometer line. It features an instantaneous jumping date, hacking seconds, and was regulated to meet chronometer-grade standards. The movement exemplifies Seiko’s dedication to precision, mechanical engineering, and finishing during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Crown Operation
| Crown Position | Function |
|---|---|
| 0 | Manual winding |
| 1 | Time setting (hacks the seconds) |
Note: The date does not have quickset. It is changed by rotating the hands past midnight repeatedly.
Calendar System
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Date Display: Numeric (1–31) at 3 o’clock
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Jump Mechanism: Instant change around midnight
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Manual Change: Rotate hands past 12:00 AM repeatedly to adjust
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Drive System: Date cam and jumper spring system integrated with the motion works
Watch Models Using the 4522A
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Grand Seiko 4522-8000
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Grand Seiko 4522-8001
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Grand Seiko 4522-7000
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Stainless steel or gold-cap cases (~36 mm)
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Applied “GS” and “Grand Seiko” text on dial
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Gold GS medallion or steel engraved casebacks
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Often marked “Chronometer Officially Certified” or later simply “Hi-Beat”
Performance Benchmarks
| Metric | Target (Post-Service) |
|---|---|
| Daily Accuracy | ±5 to ±10 seconds/day |
| Amplitude | 250°–280° (fully wound, dial up) |
| Beat Error | ≤ 0.3 ms |
With proper service and regulation, this movement can exceed vintage chronometer specifications.
Servicing and Disassembly Notes
| Component | Watchmaker Guidance |
|---|---|
| Balance Assembly | High-beat escapement with hacking lever — handle delicately |
| Date Mechanism | Use Rodico when removing jumper springs; instantaneous jump system |
| Barrel and Mainspring | Replace during major overhaul for full amplitude |
| Train Wheels | Inspect under magnification — high-beat design increases friction |
| Keyless Works | Hacking lever interacts with clutch wheel — ensure smooth function |
Regular servicing is essential due to the higher wear rates associated with the 36,000 A/h escapement.
Lubrication Chart
| Location | Recommended Lubricant |
|---|---|
| Train Wheel Pivots | Moebius 9010 |
| Escape Wheel Teeth | Moebius 941 |
| Pallet Stones | Moebius 941 |
| Balance Cap Jewels | Moebius 9010 |
| Barrel Arbor & Bridle | Moebius 8200 |
| Calendar and Setting Parts | Molykote DX or HP1300 |
Common Issues and Fixes
| Issue | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Inconsistent date jump | Weak or misaligned jumper spring | Clean, adjust or replace jumper |
| Hacking not engaging | Dirty or misaligned hack lever | Reposition and lubricate mechanism |
| Low amplitude | Aged mainspring or dirty train | Full overhaul; replace mainspring |
| Irregular timekeeping | Worn escape wheel or pallet pivots | Replace or adjust as needed |
Collectibility and Value
The 4522A is among the most collectible vintage Grand Seiko movements, especially when found in original, unpolished condition with the GS medallion intact.
| Condition | Estimated Market Value (Complete Watch) |
|---|---|
| Worn, working | $1,200–$1,800 |
| Serviced, clean dial | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Mint, medallion intact | $3,500–$5,000+ |
Movements alone are valuable for restoration but are rarely sold outside of full watches.
Comparison: 4522A vs 4520A
| Feature | 4522A | 4520A |
|---|---|---|
| Calendar | Date display | Time-only |
| Hacking | Yes | No |
| Used In | Grand Seiko 45GS Chronometer | Grand Seiko 45GS (no date) |
| Complexity | Higher due to calendar module | Simpler, cleaner architecture |
Conclusion
The Seiko 4522A represents the peak of Seiko’s hand-wound watchmaking efforts during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its high-beat frequency, hacking function, and instantaneous date change place it in the same league as Swiss chronometer-grade movements of the era. Built for performance and reliability, the 4522A remains a standout in the world of vintage Grand Seiko calibers.
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