The Seiko V691A is a battery-powered quartz chronograph movement renowned for its precision, durability, and classic analog design. It is part of Seiko’s respected V690-series, frequently utilized in sport and racing watches where timing accuracy and clear functionality are paramount. The movement features a three-hand display with a 60-minute chronograph, a 24-hour subdial, and a quickset date function, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of timepieces.

Overview

The Seiko V691A is engineered for watch enthusiasts and professionals who need reliable stopwatch functionality combined with traditional analog timekeeping. It includes central hour, minute, and chronograph seconds hands, with subdials dedicated to the 60-minute chronograph totalizer, a 24-hour indicator, and a running small seconds hand. A date window complements the dial, typically positioned between 3 and 4 o’clock.

Powered by a silver oxide battery (SR927W), the V691A offers consistent accuracy and can operate for approximately 3 years on a single battery. Its sturdy construction and straightforward layout make it ideal for both casual and professional chronograph watches.

Key Features

• Quartz Accuracy: ±15 seconds per month

• Chronograph Functions:

  • Central chronograph seconds hand

  • 60-minute totalizer subdial (usually at 9 o’clock)

  • 24-hour indicator subdial (usually at 3 o’clock)

  • Small seconds subdial (usually at 6 o’clock)

• Quickset Date Display: Adjustable via the crown

• Battery Powered: Uses SR927W silver oxide battery

• Hacking Seconds: Stops the seconds hand for accurate time setting

• Durable and Serviceable: Designed for ease of maintenance and longevity

Technical Specifications

• Caliber: Seiko V691A

• Movement Type: Quartz analog chronograph

• Battery Type: SR927W (1.55V silver oxide)

• Battery Life: Approximately 3 years

• Accuracy: ±15 seconds/month

• Chronograph Range: 60 minutes

• Calendar: Quickset date (no day)

• Jewels: 0

• Display Format:

  • Analog hour, minute, and second hands

  • Chronograph subdials

  • Date window

• Hand Hole Sizes:

  • Hour: 1.20 mm

  • Minute: 0.70 mm

  • Chronograph Seconds: 0.20 mm

• Dimensions:

  • Diameter: Approx. 27.0 mm

  • Thickness: Approx. 4.0 mm

This movement fits comfortably into cases sized 40 mm and above, commonly used in sports and professional chronographs.

Crown and Pushers Operation

Crown Positions:

• Position 0 (Pushed In): Normal operation

• Position 1 (One Click Out): Quickset date adjustment (rotate clockwise)

• Position 2 (Fully Out): Time setting with hacking seconds

Chronograph Pushers:

• Top Right (Button A): Start and stop the chronograph

• Bottom Right (Button B): Reset the chronograph to zero (after stopping)

Battery Replacement and Reset Procedure

1. Remove the back case and carefully extract the SR927W battery using plastic or non-metallic tweezers.

2. Insert a new SR927W battery, ensuring the correct polarity.

3. Perform an AC reset by bridging the reset terminal with the positive battery edge using tweezers.

4. Confirm the movement resumes normal operation, with the second hand ticking once per second.

Ensure gaskets are replaced during battery change, and test water resistance if applicable.

Maintenance Tips

• Chronograph Hand Alignment: If chronograph hands do not reset correctly, recalibrate using crown and pusher combinations as described in the service manual.

• Calendar Maintenance: Avoid setting the date between 9:00 PM and 3:00 AM to prevent damaging the calendar gears.

• Lubrication: Limited lubrication is necessary, focused on keyless works and moving parts within the chronograph mechanism.

• Pushers: Check for proper function, and clean or replace if sticky or unresponsive.

• Hand Clearance: Verify sufficient spacing between hands to prevent interference.

Common Issues

• Chronograph Hands Out of Alignment: Recalibrate by manual adjustment using the crown and pushers.

• Watch Stops Running: Usually caused by battery depletion or dirty battery contacts.

• Pushers Stick or Fail to Engage: Likely due to dirt or worn seals—clean and lubricate as needed.

• Date Does Not Advance: Often caused by adjusting the date during the calendar changeover window or mechanical wear.

• Inaccurate Timekeeping: May result from exposure to strong magnets or battery issues.

Applications

The V691A is well-suited for:

• Professional and sports chronograph watches

• Pilot and racing watches

• Field watches with stopwatch capability

• Affordable and mid-tier quartz chronograph timepieces

Its balance of precision, robustness, and ease of maintenance has made it popular across a variety of watch styles and markets.

Conclusion

The Seiko V691A is a reliable and accurate quartz chronograph movement designed for precision timing and daily wear durability. Featuring a 60-minute stopwatch, 24-hour indicator, and date function, it provides comprehensive timekeeping tools with easy operation. Backed by Seiko’s legacy of quality, the V691A remains a preferred movement for watchmakers seeking a durable, user-friendly chronograph solution with long-lasting performance and simple servicing requirements.