Seiko 6138-8020 - Authenticity check

Hi,

Moving the post here for better visibility.

I have been told all the Seiko experts reside here. I have tried to do as much research as I can, however, due to the poor quality pics I believe that I need a more trained eye to confirm the authenticity of this Seiko 6138-8020. Below are the pictures. Unfortunately, i can not obtain better pics due to nature of sale. I am concerned that the left edge of "seiko" "chronograph" "automatic" may be slightly off of straight. Additionally, it is difficult to tell if the "A" in Japan as the correct flat top. I am also having a difficult time determining if inside of the date cutout are painted or not. Do the sub dial hands look in worse shape than rest of dial and hands?

Essentially, which parts do you believe to be aftermarket? Any information would be very helpful. I am interested in adding this beautiful seiko model to my collection and would like a fairly original example. Thank you in advance for all your knowledge and assistance.

P.S. Thank you for all who contributed to this thread where I learned a lot about this model (https://omegaforums.net/threads/seiko-6138-8020-panda-arrived-update.60487/#post-753479)

Best,
SpecialKT

I'm by no means an expert, but I'd here note that everything about this watch shouts authentic. It's ratty, unprepared, and the bracelet and case show the same wear. If it's reasonably priced (anything around $1k) I'd be all over it.

Seems all authentic and has also the rare stelux bracelet and the horseshoe printed caseback as a benefit. I would go for it, if the price is reasonable.

I saw it sold for $1502. Did you win it?

Nope. Was outbid in the last couple of minutes. Back to browsing Ebay lol

It’s nice that it’s presumably original but assume a full service is needed and you’re closer to $1800 which is pretty pricey.

Agreed. If I'm patient I'm sure I can eventually pick up one for cheaper

Absolutely--the range on ebay's *much* lower than what this got to, i.e. it got the the super-ugly-never-touched premium.

Are you sure you're not comparing genuine watches to frankens? Examples in the lower range are full of fake parts, in my experience.

Really good point--probably not, honestly. Looking more closely at sold examples on ebay, it sure seems like this wasn't too anomalous a price.