Seiko 5932A – Technical Guide

Introduction

The Seiko 5932A is a mid-1970s to early 1980s 3-hand quartz movement with a day-date complication, developed as part of Seiko’s 59XX series. This movement was engineered for slim-profile quartz dress watches and offers a great balance of functionality, precision, and battery efficiency.

An evolution of the 5930A (no date) and 5931A (date only), the 5932A added full calendar support (day and date) while keeping the same thin, efficient layout. It was used in Seiko’s Quartz Type II, Quartz Standard, and JDM-exclusive models, many of which remain desirable today for their simplicity and reliability.

Technical Specifications

Movement Overview

Quartz Functionality

The 5932A uses a CMOS IC to regulate a stepping motor that pulses the second hand once every second. It’s engineered for low energy draw and long battery life, making it highly reliable over decades of operation.

Day-Date Calendar

• Quickset function allows the wearer to independently adjust:

  • Date by turning the crown in one direction

  • Day by turning the crown in the opposite direction

• Day wheel often features bilingual options (English + Kanji or Spanish)

• Calendar advances automatically at midnight via mechanical switching

• Calendar is mechanically linked, so avoid adjusting during 9 PM to 3 AM

Battery Replacement and Reset

• Movement uses a SR920SW (1.55V) battery

• After replacing the battery, you must perform an AC reset to restart the movement:

AC Reset Procedure:

1. Locate the AC (All Clear) pin on the movement (usually labeled)

2. Short the AC pin to the battery's positive terminal using plastic or non-metallic tweezers

3. Hold for 2–3 seconds

4. The movement will initialize, and hands will resume ticking

Without this reset, the circuit may remain inactive even with a new battery installed.

Time and Calendar Setting

• Crown Position 0 (pushed in): Normal running mode

• Crown Position 1 (first click):

  • Rotate clockwise → sets date

  • Rotate counterclockwise → sets day

• Crown Position 2 (fully pulled out):

  • Set time (no hacking seconds)

Servicing and Maintenance

The 5932A is considered non-serviceable at the component level, meaning:

• No lubrication required

• Internal parts (stepping motor, circuit, wheels) are not user-replaceable

• Most maintenance involves:

  • Battery changes

  • Cleaning battery contacts

  • Checking the gear train for dust or wear

  • Performing AC reset as needed

Coil damage or circuit failure typically requires full movement replacement.

Common Issues & Fixes

Watch Models Using 5932A

Seiko installed the 5932A in a wide range of quartz dress watches, especially in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Typical watch features:

• Casebacks marked "5932-xxxx"

• Classic Seiko Quartz or Quartz Type II dials

• Stainless steel, gold-tone, or two-tone cases

• Day-date display at 3 o'clock

• Minimalist designs with baton markers and simple branding

Distribution:

• Primarily sold in Japan (JDM) and Asian markets

• Select models exported to Europe under Quartz Type II labeling

Summary Table

Conclusion

The Seiko 5932A is a classic example of Seiko’s high-efficiency quartz movement design, offering practical day-date functionality, long battery life, and a slim profile. Reliable, low-maintenance, and still fully functional decades later, the 5932A remains a favorite among collectors and watch restorers seeking vintage Seiko quartz quality with just the right amount of features.