Seiko - Lord Matic Special 連光 (Renkō) – Connected Light - No reserve price - 5216-6040 - Men - 1974

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of the Seiko Lord Matic Special, a high-grade variation of the famous LM line produced by the Daini Seikosha factory. Powered by the highly regarded 5216 automatic movement, which later formed the basis for Seiko's 4S high-end calibers, this timepiece represents the pinnacle of mid-1970s Japanese watchmaking. With its sharp faceted case and pristine dial, this specific example from May 1974 offers collectors a perfect blend of horological history and everyday wearability. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Special Reference Number: 5216-6040 Serial Number: 454341 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5216A Dial: Silver Sunburst with Vertical Texture Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a sharp unpolished case profile and a pristine dial. Dial and Hands The silver dial is preserved in exceptional condition and features a subtle vertical brushed texture that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with polished applied baton indices and the distinctive gold-tone LM and Special logos which add a touch of elegance. The original handset is sharp and free from oxidation. A framed day and date window is positioned at three o'clock featuring a Kanji and English calendar wheel. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case retains its original sharp geometry with distinct faceted lugs that reflect the classic Tanaka grammar of design influence. While there are minor surface scratches consistent with careful usage the edges remain crisp and defined. The crystal is clear and presents very well offering an unobstructed view of the dial. Movement Powering this watch is the high-grade automatic Caliber 5216A with 23 jewels. This movement is a significant step up from standard Lord Matic calibers featuring Hi-Beat 28800 bph specifications along with hand-winding and hacking capabilities. The movement is clean and running within vintage tolerances offering reliable vintage performance. Timegrapher results indicate a deviation of -4 to -11 seconds per day which indicates a healthy movement. Strap The watch comes fitted on its original stainless steel link bracelet complete with the signature LM embossed folding clasp. The bracelet fits a wrist size of approximately 18 cm and complements the case design perfectly. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is flawless to the naked eye and the case shows only honest signs of wear without having been over-polished. The movement is functioning correctly and the quickset date features operate as intended. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown making it a classic and versatile size for vintage dress watch enthusiasts. Remarks The Lord Matic Special is becoming increasingly sought after by collectors due to its superior 5200-series movement which is often compared favorably to King Seiko calibers of the era. This specific reference 5216-6040 is a fantastic example of 1970s Daini manufacturing excellence. History Seiko introduced the Lord Matic line in 1968 as a mid-tier offering below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines but the "Special" designation indicated a movement upgrade to the 5200 series. Produced by the Daini Seikosha factory these watches were designed to offer chronometer-grade architecture in a robust everyday package. The 5216 caliber inside this watch is historically significant as it was later resurrected in the 1990s as the 4S movement used in high-end Credor models cementing its legacy as one of Seiko's finest automatic engines. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLS-0006