The Story Behind the Seiko Half Moon (the “tiktok watch”)
Originally released in the late 1980s to early 1990s, the Seiko Half Moon—often referred to by model codes like 1F20-5D59, 4N00-5350, or 2P20-5K20—is a quartz ladies' dress watch known for its distinctive asymmetrical, crescent-shaped (“half-moon”) case and slim profile.
The TikTok-Fueled Hype
A few months ago, the Half Moon watch started trending—not as a vintage grail, but as a charming, affordable piece for style-forward minds.
GQ captured this viral moment: a reseller named Katie Papp stumbled on the Half Moon via Pinterest during the pandemic, initially buying one for just $55—only to resell it for $220.
Since then, some models have been listed online for as high as $1,900.
As GQ put it, the watch’s quirky design and accessibility made it a darling of WatchTok—a beacon for those seeking unique flair amid the sea of round faces.
Influencers like Mike Nouveau elevated interest in affordable vintage styles, pitching the Half Moon as the counterpoint to luxury icons that most can't afford.
Market Prices in Euros: From Bargain to Boutique
Here’s how the numbers look today, converted roughly into Euros (€) (EUR 1 ≈ USD 0.90):
-
Etsy listings: €500–€700 for vintage models in good condition.
-
Chrono24: Around €360 for a gold-plated version (1988, good condition).
-
eBay range (varies widely): from €140 for non-functional units, all the way up to €1,700 for rare, well-preserved models.
Secondary Market Trajectory: Up, Up, Up
| Timeframe | Price Trend |
|---|---|
| Pre-hype (vintage era) | Modest—generally under €100 |
| Recent viral spike | Surge to €200–€500 (resale boom) |
| Rare/collector pieces | Peaked as high as €1,700 online |
In short, the Half Moon has gone from low-key vintage find to flashy collector’s item almost overnight. Its rise reflects a broader trend: buyers are craving personality, nostalgia, and affordability—all in one retro package.
Wrapping It Up
-
Release: Late 1980s–1990s; distinctive asymmetrical quartz dress watch for women.
-
Revival: Sparked by TikTok and Pinterest-driven vintage culture; influencers spotlighted its charm.
-
Market Prices: Now range from €100s to nearly €1,700, depending on condition and rarity.
-
Trend: A notable surge in secondary market value—this little watch has officially caught fire.
What do you think about it?
Do you like it?