Seiko 4826A – Technical Guide

General Overview

• Caliber: Seiko 4826A

• Type: Quartz movement

• Manufacturer: Suwa Seikosha (Seiko Group)

• Production Period: Circa 1973–1978

• Movement Series: 48-series premium quartz

• Primary Use: High-end Seiko Quartz (including King Seiko) with day-date complication

• Notable Feature: High-accuracy quartz with 9 jewels and bilingual day display

Technical Specifications

Functional Description

The 4826A was engineered with the same attention to quality as its time-only sibling, the 4823A, but includes a full day-date complication. The movement integrates a mechanical-style gear train and calendar system with quartz time regulation, ensuring the precision of quartz while retaining serviceability and longevity.

Crown Operation

Calendar System

• Day Disk: Bilingual (EN/FR or EN/Kanji, depending on market)

• Date Disk: Numeric (1–31)

• Quickset Mechanism:

  • Turn crown clockwise in position 1 to change date

  • Turn counterclockwise to change day

• Changeover Time: Between 10:30 PM and 12:00 AM

• Calendar Drive: Driven by step motor and mechanical lever system

Watch Models Using the 4826A

The 4826A was used in premium Seiko quartz watches including:

• Seiko Quartz QT Day-Date models

• King Seiko Quartz day-date references

• Often stainless steel or gold-cap with cushion or round cases

• Dials marked “Quartz” and usually “Japan 4826” below 6 o'clock

• Casebacks marked with model number (e.g., 4826-8000 or 4826-8010)

Performance Benchmarks

With regular maintenance, these movements continue to achieve superior timekeeping even decades after manufacture.

Disassembly and Servicing Notes

Although a quartz movement, the 4826A shares a lot of mechanical structure with traditional watches and is serviceable with standard watchmaker tools.

Lubrication Points

Do not lubricate step motor coils or the circuit board.

Common Issues and Fixes

Collectibility and Value

The 4826A is part of Seiko’s first-generation quartz lineage and is gaining recognition among collectors of early quartz technology. Day-date models tend to be less collectible than 4823A Grand Seiko models but are highly valued for restoration or daily wear.

Comparison: 4826A vs 4823A

Conclusion

The Seiko 4826A is a landmark in Seiko's quartz history. With its premium construction, day-date display, and precision engineering, it showcases the transition from mechanical excellence to electronic mastery. Whether in a King Seiko or QT model, this movement combines accuracy, craftsmanship, and longevity — making it a prized piece for vintage Seiko collectors and restorers.