Seiko Lord Matic 5606-7190 (1972)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage The Seiko Lord Matic represents a golden era of Japanese horology, perfectly bridging the gap between everyday reliability and the high-end refinement of the King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines. This particular example from the early 1970s is a visual standout, characterized by a captivating gradient dial that perfectly captures the bold yet sophisticated design language of its time. Retaining its original factory bracelet and showcasing sharp case lines, this timepiece offers an exceptional opportunity for collectors seeking a highly original and aesthetically striking vintage Seiko. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7190 Serial Number: 270420 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606, 25 Jewels Dial: Gradient grey to black metallic dial with applied faceted indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minimal signs of use Dial and Hands The dial of this Lord Matic is a masterful execution of 1970s design, featuring a stunning fumé gradient that transitions seamlessly from a warm metallic grey at the center to a deep, rich black at the outer periphery. Under magnification, the dial reveals a fine horizontal brushed texture that catches the light beautifully. The dial furniture includes highly polished, applied silver-tone faceted baton indices featuring contrasting black center stripes, which are perfectly matched by the sharp dauphine hands. A framed day-date aperture sits cleanly at the three o'clock position. The applied Seiko and LM logos stand proud against the surface, while the printed text and Suwa Seikosha logo remain impeccably crisp. The dial condition is outstanding, presenting as exceptionally clean with no visible spotting, moisture damage, stains, or edge degradation, preserving a flawless vintage aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 37 millimeter stainless steel case exemplifies Seiko's renowned grammar of design, featuring a robust yet elegant profile. The case architecture highlights a beautiful transition between the brushed upper lug surfaces and the highly polished case flanks, with the factory chamfers and lug profiles remaining sharp and well-defined. A smooth polished bezel frames the dial perfectly. The watch is fitted with a domed crystal that sits slightly proud of the bezel, presenting clearly with no significant scratches or detractions. The caseback is fully intact, displaying crisp and deep factory engravings including the reference and serial numbers. The case shows only honest, light surface wear and fine handling marks consistent with careful use over the decades, maintaining a very handsome presence on the wrist. Movement Powering this timepiece is the esteemed Suwa Seikosha Caliber 5606, an automatic movement featuring 25 jewels that formed the backbone of Seiko's upper-mid-tier offerings during this era. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results reflect a daily deviation of -19 to -22 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel bracelet, a highly desirable and comfortable configuration. The bracelet features intricate multi-link construction with brushed outer links and polished inner beads. Crucially, it retains its original folding clasp, which proudly bears the deeply stamped Seiko LM branding. The bracelet is well-preserved and will accommodate a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case remains robust with well-preserved factory finishing and sharp lines, showing only minor, age-appropriate handling marks. The gradient dial is the absolute highlight, remaining immaculately preserved with no signs of degradation. The original signed bracelet adds significant collector value and remains in very good functional and aesthetic shape. Dimensions The case measures 37 mm in width, excluding the crown. The included original bracelet accommodates a wrist circumference of up to 18 cm. Remarks Finding a Seiko Lord Matic with such a vibrant gradient dial in this state of preservation is becoming increasingly difficult. The combination of the striking fumé aesthetic, the pristine dial condition, and the presence of the original LM-signed beads-of-rice bracelet elevates this watch from a standard vintage piece to a true collector's item. It embodies the pinnacle of Seiko's 1970s design philosophy and remains a highly wearable and versatile classic. History Introduced in 1968, the Seiko Lord Matic series was strategically positioned just below the prestigious King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines, offering the public access to high-grade automatic movements and sophisticated case finishing. Manufactured by the legendary Suwa Seikosha factory, the LM line utilized the advanced 5600 series calibers, which were celebrated for their slim profiles and reliable performance. Throughout the 1970s, the Lord Matic became a canvas for Seiko's most creative dial designs, experimenting with textures, colors, and faceted crystals. Today, the LM series is deeply respected by enthusiasts for delivering exceptional horological value and capturing the adventurous aesthetic spirit of its era. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAL-0018