Ricoh Dynamic Wide Ref. 30804 - 25 Jewels, 1967, ¥14,000 Period Tag
At the 12 o'clock position, the word "MONDAY" forms an arc, while the date sits at 3 o'clock beneath a crystal-mounted magnifier. With the addition of a fluted gold-tone bezel, it is easy to see why this Ricoh evokes the Rolex Day-Date. However, the applied "W" emblem just below the day window steers the dial in a different direction: this is the Ricoh Dynamic Wide.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: As this item ships from within the European Union, you will not be liable for customs duties within the EU.**
Ricoh launched the Dynamic Wide series in the mid-1960s featuring 25-jewel automatic models. In this example, the "25 JEWELS" designation is not merely a feature printed on the dial; it reappears on the rotor inscribed "RICOH AUTOMATIC / 25 JEWELS" when the case back is opened.
The dial’s finely brushed silver surface provides a serene backdrop for the gold-tone wedge-shaped indices. Although the elongated day window dominates the 12 o'clock position, it does not clutter the layout; the "W" emblem and the handwritten "Dynamic Wide" logo beneath it fill the intervening space. The date magnifier at 3 o'clock rises prominently from the crystal, giving the watch a distinctive profile that is instantly recognizable whether viewed head-on or from the side.
The reference number 30804 and serial number U418379 on the case back date this piece to 1967, the early era of the Dynamic Wide; the series had been introduced just a year prior, in 1966. The "G.P." stamp on the approximately 36mm case indicates its gold-plated construction, while "STAINLESS BACK" denotes the stainless steel case back. The "R"-signed crown, elongated lugs, and the still-distinctive fluted bezel complete the case's period-correct character.
One of the highlights of this particular example is the original Japanese sales tag still attached to the strap. The tag lists "25石" (25 jewels), "自動巻" (automatic winding), "防水" (water-resistant), and "¥14,000" (the retail price at the time). Being able to read the watch's technical specifications and original retail price from its own tag after nearly sixty years is a delightful detail in itself.
The round Ricoh medallion included in the set has also been preserved. One side bears the inscription "DELUXE · RICOH · DYNAMIC WIDE," while the other features the text "RICOH WHO LEAD THE WORLD WATCH INDUSTRY" around the perimeter and the Ricoh logo in the center.
Although not offered as NOS (New Old Stock), the watch is in excellent condition for its age. The silver dial is clean, the printing is crisp, and the gold-tone indices and case surfaces retain a strong appearance. The fluted bezel and the crystal with a date magnifier also perfectly preserve the model's character. The presentation box featuring a navy blue exterior and red interior, as shown in the photos is included with the watch.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, you recognize the 30804 by its Day-Date-like silhouette, yet the details that leave a lasting impression are distinctly Ricoh. The "W" on the dial, the 25-jewel automatic movement, the original ¥14,000 price tag, and the "Dynamic Wide" medallion tell the story not only of how the watch looks but also of how it was presented in its own era. The item you are viewing was manufactured in 1967.
IT HAS UNDERGONE A COMPLETE PROFESSIONAL OVERHAUL.
The movement was fully disassembled; every part was cleaned, lubricated, and precisely adjusted to ensure flawless operation. (It will not require further servicing for three years, provided it is not exposed to adverse conditions.)
Item Condition: Tested; all functions are fully operational.
