The Seiko 6138-8000, affectionately known as the “Baby Panda,” is among the rarer chronographs in Seiko’s vintage lineup. Introduced in 1971 and powered by the 23-jewel Caliber 6138B, this reference was produced for only a single year—exclusively for the Japanese domestic market under the 6138-800x family. Like its sibling, the 8001, the 8000 was offered with two dial variants: a black iridescent charcoal and a pearl white. The example presented here features the latter—a creamy, elegant dial that complements the watch’s balanced proportions. Slightly slimmer and lighter than the “Jumbo” 8001, the 8000 wears comfortably on smaller wrists while maintaining enough wrist presence. 

This particular piece, circa October '71 stands out as an unused, pristine example—originally discovered as old stock in a long-closed watch store in Japan’s Ibaraki Prefecture. Freshly serviced, it ranks among the finest surviving specimens of this highly collectible chronograph. 

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