Seiko Lord Matic 5606-5080 (1972)

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This striking 1972 Seiko Lord Matic represents the bold geometric design language of the 1970s, offering a captivating distinctive aesthetic that collectors adore. With its square "TV-screen" case architecture and a stunning faceted cut crystal that plays with light across the dial, this timepiece is a true statement of Japanese watchmaking creativity. The Lord Matic line was positioned as a high-grade offering during its era, sitting just below the King Seiko, and this example perfectly captures that blend of quality construction and avant-garde style. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-5080 Serial Number: 2D3595 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Gradient Champagne Brown Sunburst Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest wear consistent with its age, including surface marks on the case and scratches on the original faceted crystal, yet it retains a strong and attractive vintage presence. The movement is functioning properly. Dial and Hands The dial is a highlight of this timepiece, featuring a beautiful gradient champagne to brown sunburst finish that darkens towards the edges. It is adorned with applied block hour markers and a framed day-date window at the 3 o'clock position, displaying both English and Kanji characters. The silver-tone baton hands feature a slender inlay, complementing the polished applied "LM" logo and the Suwa Seikosha emblem above 6 o'clock. The unique horizontal faceted crystal creates a prismatic effect that distorts and highlights the dial elements dynamically. Case and Crystal The square stainless steel case measures 34mm but wears slightly larger due to its geometric shape and lug design. It remains unpolished with sharp factory lines still visible, though there are surface scratches and contact marks throughout consistent with use. The defining feature is the original faceted mineral glass crystal, which features horizontal cutting planes. The crystal shows visible scratches and hazing from age, which is typical for these unique protruding crystals, but the distinct faceting remains crisp and visually engaging. Movement Powering the watch is the reliable Seiko Caliber 5606 automatic movement, a 25-jewel workhorse known for its durability. The timegrapher results indicate the watch is running between +39 and +41 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement running within vintage tolerances. It features a hacking seconds function for precise time setting. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel link bracelet, complete with the correct "LM" signed folding clasp. The bracelet is comfortable and retains a good aesthetic match to the case, fitting a wrist size of approximately 19.5 cm. Condition This timepiece is rated in good vintage condition. While it displays expected signs of wear such as scratches on the case and crystal, it remains an honest and original example. The dial is well-preserved, free from major staining or damage. The case retains its architectural integrity, and the watch presents itself as a charming survivor from the 1970s. Dimensions The square case measures approximately 34 mm in width excluding the crown. The lug-to-lug measurement and integrated bracelet design ensure a substantial presence on the wrist suitable for various sizes. Remarks This Seiko Lord Matic 5606-5080 is a fantastic example of 1970s retro-futurism. The combination of the gradient dial and the faceted crystal makes it a conversation piece that catches the light beautifully. It is a perfect acquisition for collectors looking for a distinctively shaped vintage Seiko with genuine character and history. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Lord Matic series was a significant line for Seiko, incorporating the advanced 5600-series movements that were thinner and more capable than their predecessors. The LM line brought high-end automatic movements to a wider audience and served as the canvas for some of Seiko's most experimental case and dial designs during the 1970s. This specific reference from December 1972 embodies the era's fascination with geometric forms and non-traditional crystal cuts. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLA-0001