Seiko calibre 4500 and 4502 review

Dainin Seikosa priduced it’s first high beat movement with a rate of 36,000 A/H and was named 4500. the date version is named 4502. These where used in King Seiko’s, but where also used in the Grand Seiko and known as 4520 and 4522. A special version V.F.A (Very fine adjusted) was known as 4580. The high beat rate is known for very good accuracy, the drawback is the amount of power from the mainspring makes it prone to wearing down faster than a lower beat movement. 

Seiko calibre 4500-4580

  • Made approximately ca: 1968-1974
  • Made in Japan
  • Power reserve 45h
  • 25 Jewels 
  • 36000 B/A
  • DM xxmm 
  • H XXmm

Surface finish on calibre 4500 has Rhodium plating with gilt infill of the lettering. Gear train bridge has nice design with beveled edges and a fine finishing.  Screws are polished to a high standard and the crown and ratchet wheel have a fine finish.. 

Surface finish on top side of the plate and bridges: 7 Points

Surface finish on screws: 9 Points

Surface finish on crown and ratchet wheel: 8

Movement Jeweling: 8 points 

Movement design innovation (for ca 1968):  8 points

The  base plate on the calibre 4500 is a little rough compared to the gear train bridges. Setting a winding mechanism is well made. 

Base plate finish: 5 Points

Setting and winding mechanism: 7 Points

Gear-train finish: 7 Points

Date change snappiness: 7 Points* 

Movement durability is a issue on the calibre 4500 series as the power is substantial and regular service is advised: 5 Points

The 4500 series all come with stud adjuster and micro regulator. 

Micro regulator: 3 points 

Stud adjuster: 3 points 

Further bonus points

Hacking lever: 3 points 

Quick set date change: 3 points 

Calibre 4500 series when in good condition are very accurate

Accuracy: 8 points

+2 points for chronometer rated 

+ 4 points for VFA

Power reserve of 45 hours is good.

Power reserve: 8 Points

Seiko calibre 4500-4580 points summary: 

Surface finish on bridges and top side of base plate: 7

Surface finish top screws: 9

Surface finish on ratchet and ratchet wheel: 8

Movement Jeweling: 8

Movement innovative design for ca 1968: 8 

Base plate finish: 5

Setting and winding mechanism: 7

Gear-train finish: 7

Date change snappiness: 7*

Movement durability: 5

Bonus points: 6-18*

Accuracy: 8

Power reserve: 8

Grand total: 86-98*