Seiko Lord Matic 5606-7240 (1972)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The 1970s represented a golden era of experimental horological design, and Seiko was at the forefront of this movement, blending reliable mechanics with daring visual architecture. This remarkable Lord Matic captures that adventurous spirit perfectly, boasting a captivating faceted crystal and a highly dramatic two-tone dial. Watches from this period are increasingly celebrated by collectors for their unapologetic aesthetic, and finding an example that retains such strong factory geometry and its original signed bracelet makes this an exceptional opportunity for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese watchmaking. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7240 Serial Number: 269484 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606A, 23 Jewels Dial: Two-tone deep blue and gold with faceted applied indices, exceptionally clean preservation Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with crisp case lines and a highly preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial of this Lord Matic is a masterful exercise in contrast and texture. It features a deep blue central rectangle that appears almost black in certain lighting, surrounded by a brilliant, textured golden outer chapter ring. The applied gold-tone indices straddle this boundary, featuring sharp facets and black central painted stripes that perfectly match the elegant baton handset. An applied gold-tone Seiko logo sits at the twelve o'clock position, balanced by the applied LM emblem and the printed Suwa Seikosha symbol above six o'clock. The framed day and date aperture at three o'clock offers clean, crisp typography. A close visual inspection reveals the dial to be in stunning condition, free from moisture stains, prominent spots, or edge degradation, presenting a rich and vibrant luster that is exceptionally rare for dual-tone dials of this era. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel case utilizes a classic 1970s tonneau profile, characterized by broad upper lugs and a recessed crown nestled subtly at the three o'clock position. The case retains excellent definition, showcasing the deliberate factory transitions between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the mirror-polished flanks. Handling marks and fine scratches are visible upon close inspection, reflecting honest vintage wear without compromising the sharp structural integrity of the silhouette. The watch is fitted with a defining faceted crystal, which casts dynamic geometric reflections and plays endlessly with the light across the two-tone dial. The crystal exhibits minor edge wear and faint surface marks consistent with careful use, preserving the dramatic optical effect that makes this reference so highly sought after. Movement Housed within the case is the robust Seiko Caliber 5606A automatic movement, featuring 23 jewels and a day-date complication. The movement images reveal a clean mechanism with bright bridges, a well-preserved rotor, and crisp factory engravings including the Suwa symbol and caliber designation. The components appear tidy and visually healthy. Movement is operational and in working condition. Strap This timepiece is accompanied by its original stainless steel multi-link bracelet, a crucial detail for collectors. The folding clasp is deeply signed with both the Seiko and LM logos, confirming its authenticity to the watch. The bracelet links display a handsome combination of brushed and polished finishes, exhibiting moderate stretch and surface wear consistent with the age of the case. It perfectly integrates with the tonneau lug profile and accommodates a wrist size up to 18 cm. Condition This Lord Matic is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is a true standout, remaining remarkably well-preserved with vibrant colors and pristine applied furniture. The stainless steel case boasts strong, unpolished characteristics with factory brushing still clearly visible beneath honest signs of regular wear. The faceted crystal retains its bold shape despite minor flea bites along the extreme edges. The presence of the original signed bracelet completes a highly cohesive and collectible package. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm Wrist Size: 18 cm Remarks Watches from the Lord Matic line frequently offer some of the most compelling dial and crystal combinations of the decade. This specific reference elevates that concept with its geometric crystal and golden architectural dial elements. It is a piece that demands attention on the wrist, offering a sophisticated blend of dress watch proportions and avant-garde retro styling. History Introduced in 1968, the Seiko Lord Matic series was positioned just beneath the prestigious King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines, sharing much of the same high-quality movement architecture and design DNA. The LM line became Seiko's playground for expressive dial designs, faceted crystals, and intricate case geometries during the 1970s. Powered by the dependable 5600 series calibers, the Lord Matic was the watch of choice for the aspiring Japanese professional, representing a perfect intersection of reliable engineering and forward-thinking fashion. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLJ-0075