SimplyAbuDhabi XLVII

SEIKO 6105 Movie: Apocalypse Now (1979) Features: 44mm case, water resistance up to 150 metres, rotating bezel, GL721 “Chocolate Bar / Captain Willard” runner strap and the 6105 automatic movement. The Seiko 6105 has garnered a devoted following among watch enthusiasts and collectors, thanks in part to its appearance in Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now . Worn by Martin Sheen’s character, Captain Willard, the 6105 (often referred to as “the Willard” ) is an exceptionally robust timepiece designed for survival, and as such it was one of the most popular watches worn by U.S. service members during the VietnamWar. Known for its distinctive cushion-shaped case and rotating bezel, the watch can be seen as a symbol of resilience in the midst of chaos. In Apocalypse Now , the watch serves as a functional tool for the character as he wrestles with the film’s themes of war and existential struggle. Produced between 1968 and 1977, the Seiko 6105 is celebrated for its two distinct case styles: the cushion-cased 8000/8009 and the larger, asymmetrical 8110/8119. Both variations are highly regarded among vintage Seiko collectors. The 6105 followed closely behind Seiko’s first true dive watch, the 6217, marking a significant evolution in the brand’s dive watch lineage. The influence of the 6105 is evident in the subsequent generations of Seiko watches. Its 4 o’clock crown design has become a hallmark of many modern Seiko divers, while the cushion-shaped case inspired the Seiko reference 6309 introduced in 1976, which has since become a coveted piece in its own right. Later models, such as the SKX series and the contemporary “Turtle” line, can trace their design heritage directly back to the 6105. The Seiko 6105 has experienced a recent revival in popularity, particularly among collectors who appreciate its vintage charm and rich history. Its memorable appearance in Apocalypse Now has solidified its status as an iconic timepiece, appealing to those who seek both historical significance and practical functionality in their watches. Simply Abu Dhabi | 213