Seiko H249A - Technical Guide

The Seiko H249A is a reliable battery-powered quartz movement designed for simple analog wristwatches. It features a classic three-hand display (hour, minute, and second) without additional complications like date or chronograph functions. This movement is popular in entry-level and fashion watches where accurate timekeeping and minimal maintenance are essential.


Overview

The H249A provides dependable, straightforward timekeeping with high precision and a compact design suitable for smaller watch cases. Powered by a standard silver oxide battery, it offers long-lasting performance with minimal servicing requirements. The movement’s minimalist approach allows watchmakers to focus on elegant and clean dial designs.


Key Features

  • Quartz Accuracy: Typically ±15 seconds per month

  • Three-Hand Analog Display: Central hour, minute, and second hands

  • Battery Powered: Uses SR626SW or equivalent silver oxide battery

  • Compact Size: Fits smaller watch cases, often used in ladies’ or unisex watches

  • Low Maintenance: Simple mechanism with long battery life

  • Hacking Seconds: Seconds hand stops during time setting for precise synchronization


Technical Specifications

  • Caliber: Seiko H249A

  • Movement Type: Quartz analog

  • Battery Type: SR626SW (1.55V silver oxide)

  • Battery Life: Approximately 2–3 years

  • Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month

  • Jewels: 0

  • Display Format: Time only (hours, minutes, seconds)

  • Hand Hole Sizes:

    • Hour: ~1.10 mm

    • Minute: ~0.65 mm

    • Seconds: ~0.20 mm

  • Dimensions:

    • Diameter: Approx. 17.0 mm

    • Thickness: Approx. 2.5 mm


Operating Instructions

  • Time Setting: Pull the crown out to the single position and rotate to set the hour and minute hands. The seconds hand halts (hacking feature) while setting, allowing for precise time adjustment.

  • Battery Replacement: When the watch stops or seconds hand ticks irregularly (such as jumping two seconds at a time), the battery should be replaced promptly.


Battery Replacement & Maintenance

  1. Open the watch case back using proper tools.

  2. Remove the old battery using plastic tweezers to prevent short circuits.

  3. Insert a new SR626SW battery with correct polarity.

  4. Close the case back securely.

  5. Check for proper operation and time accuracy.

Regular checks for moisture ingress and gasket condition are recommended to maintain water resistance, especially in sealed watches.


Common Issues

  • Watch Stops or Ticks Irregularly: Battery depletion is the most common cause; replace battery immediately.

  • Inaccurate Timekeeping: May result from magnetic fields or aging battery; demagnetization and battery replacement help restore accuracy.

  • Water Damage: Regular gasket inspection and replacement are essential.

  • Crown or Stem Problems: Handle with care to avoid mechanical damage during time setting.


Applications

The Seiko H249A is best suited for:

  • Simple, time-only wristwatches

  • Fashion watches prioritizing clean dial designs

  • Ladies’ and unisex watches with small case diameters

  • Entry-level quartz watches emphasizing reliability and low cost


Conclusion

The Seiko H249A is a straightforward, durable quartz movement ideal for basic analog watches requiring accurate, low-maintenance timekeeping. Its compact size and reliable performance make it a popular choice for smaller watch cases and minimalist designs. With easy servicing and long battery life, the H249A continues to support simple and elegant wristwatch models worldwide.

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