Red Star Seagull 1963 Blue Panda Chronograph 42mm
Caliber: Seagull ST19 manual winding chronograph
Watchcase: stainless steel, polished
Dial: blue
Diameter: 42mm
Height: 13mm
Lug to Lug width: 48mm
Red Star Seagull 1963 “Blue Panda” – 42 mm Chronograph with Heritage
Iconic Air-Force DNA, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, swan-neck fine regulation & the hand-wound column-wheel calibre Sea-Gull ST19.
- German specialist retailer since 1992 – personal service
- Delivery includes 2 textile straps (blue striped & black)
- Additionally selectable: RIOS1931 leather strap or Milanese bracelet (see options/images)
- Careful shipping & 2-year warranty
Short Description
The Red Star Seagull 1963 “Blue Panda” is a faithful re-interpretation of the renowned Chinese Air Force watch from 1963 – here in a modern 42 mm format with sapphire crystal, a screw-down display back and a distinctive blue panda dial. The hand-wound ST19 column-wheel chronograph offers crisp pusher feel and swan-neck fine regulation for precise adjustment.
The Movement: Sea-Gull ST19 – Descendant of Classic Swiss Designs
Inside beats the Sea-Gull ST19, an integrated, fully mechanical column-wheel chronograph (hand-wound). Its architecture traces back to historic Swiss designs and was further developed in Tianjin for Air Force use. Typical specifications: approx. 21 jewels, 21,600 vph (3 Hz) and ~45 hours power reserve (model dependent). The swan-neck regulator facilitates fine rate tuning – a detail appreciated by enthusiasts.
Design & Wearability
The blue metallic dial with silver Arabic numerals and two white sub-registers is accented by the red star at 12. Luminous hands ensure good legibility. Through the screw-down display back you can admire the finely finished ST19 – a true connoisseur’s touch.
Specifications
| Calibre | Sea-Gull ST19, hand-wound, column-wheel chronograph, swan-neck fine regulation, approx. 21 jewels, 21,600 vph, ~45 h power reserve |
| Functions | Central chronograph seconds, 30-minute counter, small seconds |
| Case | Stainless steel, diameter 42 mm, height approx. 13 mm, lug width 22 mm |
| Crystal | Sapphire (scratch-resistant) |
| Caseback | Screw-down display back, Chinese inscriptions on the case flank |
| Dial | Blue “Blue Panda” layout, white totalizers, silver numerals, luminous hands, red star at 12 |
| Straps | 2× textile straps included (blue striped & black); optional RIOS1931 leather or Milanese |
| Band | 22mm |
Historical Background
In the early 1960s, the Tianjin Watch Factory was tasked with creating the first Chinese pilot chronograph for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force. Following expert testing, production commenced in 1963 – today’s 1963 re-edition carries this legacy into everyday wear.
Factory Visit & In-Depth Report
In April 2025 we visited the Sea-Gull manufacture in Tianjin and Red Star in Shenzhen. Photos, insights, and background on production can be found in our detailed report: poljot24.de/redstarseagull2025.
Operation & info on the ST19 (video): ST19 operating guide · Size comparison 38/40/42 mm: YouTube comparison
Style Tip
The Blue Panda pairs especially well with the RIOS1931 “Inzell” bio-leather strap in light brown – it warms the blue dial and emphasizes the vintage character.
