Seiko LM Special 5216-6010 (1973)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Seiko LM Special is a captivating example of 1970s Japanese watchmaking creativity, featuring a design ethos that perfectly captures the "funky" aesthetic of the era. With its distinct faceted crystal and vibrant dial, this timepiece represents a step up from the standard Lord Matic line, utilizing the high-grade 5216 movement which served as the foundation for certain King Seiko models. It is a collectible piece that combines a stunning visual presentation with mechanical pedigree, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts of vintage Seiko. Brand: Seiko Model: LM Special Reference Number: 5216-6010 Serial Number: 373164 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5216A Dial: Green Gradient Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel and Gold Plating Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition Dial and Hands The dial is the centerpiece of this watch, featuring a stunning green gradient sunburst finish that transitions from a lighter emerald center to a deep forest green at the periphery. It is adorned with applied gold-tone baton hour markers that complement the applied "Seiko" and "LM" logos. The hands are gold-tone with luminous inserts, maintaining excellent legibility. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial is viewed through the original-style faceted crystal (cut glass), which plays with the light and adds a unique prismatic depth to the watch face. Case and Crystal The case features a classic 1970s silhouette crafted from stainless steel with a gold-plated bezel, creating a handsome two-tone appearance. The case lines remain distinct and the gold-plated bezel and lug edges retain much of their original vibrancy for a watch of this era. The faceted crystal is a defining feature of this reference, preserving the sharp geometry that makes this model so desirable. Movement Powering the watch is the highly refined Seiko Caliber 5216A automatic movement, a 25-jewel engine known for its durability and capability. This "Special" grade movement offers hacking and hand-winding capabilities. The watch is currently running with a timegrapher reading of -55 to -63 seconds per day, which indicates a well operating movement performing within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap featuring contrasting white stitching and a crocodile grain pattern. The strap complements the green and gold tones of the watch head perfectly and is in very good condition, ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. It boasts an attractive appearance with minor character marks on the case and bezel that highlight its impressive preservation over decades. The dial remains in outstanding condition, serving as a vibrant focal point, while the movement continues to function reliably. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, making it a classic mid-sized dress watch that sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks The LM Special 5216-6010 is a beloved reference among collectors due to its combination of the high-beat lineage movement and the eccentric "cut glass" design. Finding one with such a rich green dial in excellent condition makes this a particularly appealing opportunity for those looking to add a splash of 1970s flair to their collection. History Introduced in the late 1960s and produced through the 1970s, the Seiko Lord Matic (LM) line was positioned just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko ranges. The "Special" designation, introduced later, signaled an upgrade in movement quality, often utilizing the 5200-series calibers which were designed to be thinner and more efficient. These watches are significant in Seiko's history as they represent the final golden era of mechanical innovation before the quartz revolution fully took hold. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLS-0035