Seiko - Lord Matic - No reserve price - 5606-7030 - Men - 1968

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This specific timepiece is a remarkable example of the Seiko Lord Matic, a line that defined the "Grammar of Design" era for the Japanese manufacture during the late 1960s. Produced in April 1968, this watch features the highly collectible "Water Proof" caseback inscription, a detail found only on early production models before the industry shift to "Water Resistant" terminology. With its monocoque case construction and sophisticated vertically brushed dial, this Lord Matic represents a sweet spot for collectors seeking the build quality of a King Seiko at a more accessible entry point. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7030 Serial Number: 840148 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Silver vertical brushed finish Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition showing normal signs of wear on the case while retaining a pristine dial presentation. The movement is running strong with timegrapher results between -2 and -10 seconds per day which indicates healthy movement performance. Dial and Hands The dial is the highlight of this timepiece, featuring a sophisticated vertical brushed silver finish that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with applied polished steel baton hour markers featuring black central inlays for superior legibility. The applied Seiko logo and Lord Matic script are crisp and well-preserved. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The handset remains in original condition with slight oxidation consistent with its age, adding to the vintage character without detracting from legibility. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a distinctive monocoque design, also known as a front-loader, which enhances water resistance by eliminating the removable caseback. The rear of the watch bears the clear English inscription "Open Thru Glass" along with the rare "Water Proof" designation. The case retains its original geometry with sharp edges on the lugs, though there are visible surface scratches and handling marks throughout the metal surfaces commensurate with a watch from 1968. The crystal appears clear and presents well. Movement Powered by the robust Seiko Caliber 5606, this 25-jewel automatic movement was a high-grade engine of its time. The movement features both hacking and hand-winding capabilities. It is currently offering reliable vintage performance, with timegrapher readings showing a rate of -2 to -10 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with a new black leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching. This choice of strap highlights the monochromatic elegance of the silver dial and steel case, making it ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. While the steel case shows honest wear and surface scratches typical of a 50-year-old tool watch, the dial has been preserved in outstanding condition with no visible staining or damage. The movement is clean and functioning within very respectable parameters for a vintage mechanical watch. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic size that sits comfortably on the wrist and slides easily under a shirt cuff. Remarks This Seiko Lord Matic 5606-7030 is a testament to the enduring quality of Seiko's late 1960s production. The combination of the "Water Proof" caseback, the specific monocoque construction, and the vertically brushed dial makes this a desirable variant for enthusiasts. It offers the distinct aesthetic of the Tanaka "Grammar of Design" rules that guided Seiko's luxury pieces of the era. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic series was positioned just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines, offering high-grade automatic movements and superior case finishing to the aspiring middle class. The 5606 movement inside this watch became one of Seiko's most ubiquitous and reliable calibers, serving as the foundation for their mechanical dominance in the 1970s. This specific example, dating to the very first year of the model's production, holds a special place in the lineage of Japanese horology. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLM-0023