Seiko Lord Matic 覚光 (Kakkō) 5606-7060 (1968)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic represents a quintessential example of Japanese watchmaking from the late 1960s, combining the distinct "Grammar of Design" case lines with a high-grade automatic movement. As a significant step up from the standard lineup, the Lord Matic series offered a blend of durability and elegance that remains highly collectible today. This particular example features a desirable monocoque case design and a stunning vertically brushed dial, preserving the sharp aesthetics that defined Seiko's golden era. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7060 Serial Number: 872322 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Silver vertically brushed Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition, showing sharp case lines and a pristine dial, with a movement running reliably. Dial and Hands The silver dial features a sophisticated vertically brushed texture that plays beautifully with the light, giving it a silk-like appearance. It is adorned with applied silver baton indices featuring black center inlays, which perfectly match the dauphine-style hands. The applied "SEIKO" and "LM" logos are crisp and raised, adding depth to the face. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, featuring a desirable bilingual English and Kanji day wheel. The dial remains remarkably clean with no signs of oxidation or staining. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is a standout feature of this reference, utilizing a monocoque (one-piece) construction that opens through the crystal, enhancing water resistance and structural integrity. The case retains its sharp, original factory lines with distinct bevels on the lugs. The caseback engraving is crisp, displaying the "Open Thru Glass" instructions and the coveted "Water Proof" designation, which confirms its early production date before the industry switch to "Water Resistant." The crystal is clear and free from distracting marks. Movement Powering this timepiece is the high-grade Caliber 5606 automatic movement, a 25-jewel engine known for its reliability and use in higher-tier Seiko models. This movement features hacking and hand-winding capabilities. Timegrapher results indicate the watch is running between +57 and +60 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap featuring vintage-style brown stitching near the lugs, complementing the classic aesthetic of the Lord Matic and ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is flawless, preserving its original luster. The case shows only very minor handling marks consistent with careful use over the decades, retaining its sharp architectural edges. The caseback inscriptions are deep and fully legible. Dimensions With a case diameter of 35 mm, the watch offers a classic vintage proportion that slides easily under a cuff while maintaining a confident presence on the wrist due to the angular lug design. Remarks This reference 5606-7060 is particularly sought after for its "Water Proof" caseback text and the unique front-loading case design. It captures the essence of 1960s Seiko design language, where functionality met high-end finishing. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic line was positioned just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko in the hierarchy, offering high-beat movements and superior finishing for the upwardly mobile professional. Produced by the Suwa Seikosha factory, these watches played a pivotal role in establishing Seiko's reputation for mechanical excellence on the global stage. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLJ-0125