Seiko - Lord Matic - No reserve price - 5606-7000 - Men - 1973

Presented for auction by Second Vintage A striking example of Japanese horological design, this Seiko Lord Matic captures the daring aesthetic of its era with a mesmerizing faceted Hardlex crystal and a brilliant blue dial. The Lord Matic line represented a sweet spot in Seiko's vintage catalog, offering sophisticated automatic movements and high-end finishing just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko tiers. This particular reference 5606-7000 stands out with its dynamic light play and robust cushion-style case, offering collectors a highly wearable and visually arresting vintage timepiece that perfectly encapsulates the adventurous spirit of 1970s watchmaking. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7000 Serial Number: 321791 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Vibrant blue gradient dial with applied faceted indices, presenting cleanly with no visible spotting or moisture damage Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Date: March 1973 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and an exceptionally preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial is a captivating vibrant blue with a subtle gradient effect, catching the light beautifully beneath the faceted Hardlex crystal. It features applied silver-tone faceted indices that provide excellent depth and contrast against the colorful backdrop. The applied Seiko and LM logos, along with the printed Suwa factory symbol, remain crisp and well-defined. A framed day-date aperture is neatly positioned at three o'clock. The polished baton hands feature a central black stripe, perfectly matching the aesthetic of the hour markers. Carefully inspected, the dial presents in remarkably clean condition, showing very little of the spotting or moisture damage often found in watches of this age, retaining its original vibrant coloration and sharp factory printing. Case and Crystal The thirty-six millimeter stainless steel case features a classic cushion-esque profile with broad shoulders and a seamless transition between the brushed upper surfaces and polished flanks. The case exhibits honest signs of wear, including superficial scratches and minor scuffs consistent with decades of regular use, yet it retains its strong original geometry without signs of heavy over-polishing. The watch is fitted with its original faceted Hardlex crystal, featuring geometric cuts that create a unique visual distortion and brilliant light play across the dial. The crystal shows some light surface scratches commensurate with age and normal handling, but remains highly attractive. The smartly proportioned crown is positioned at three o'clock. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko automatic caliber 5606, a highly regarded movement known for its reliability and refined architecture. This twenty-three jewel mechanism features both day and date complications, reflecting Seiko's commitment to everyday utility. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate a performance of -9s to -15s/day. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel multi-link bracelet. The links echo the blocky, architectural design language of the era, providing a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. The folding clasp operates smoothly and displays standard stainless steel markings on the inner blades, showing light surface wear consistent with the rest of the timepiece. Condition This Seiko Lord Matic is presented in good vintage condition. The case and bracelet show normal vintage wear, including moderate surface scratches and handling marks, while maintaining well-defined lines and a handsome overall presence. The standout blue dial is exceptionally well-preserved, remaining clean and vibrant without notable flaws. The distinctive faceted Hardlex crystal exhibits light wear but remains structurally sound and highly legible. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown. The proportions offer a classic, understated presence on the wrist that remains highly versatile and comfortable for modern wear. Remarks This reference 5606-7000 is a quintessential example of Seiko's adventurous mid-century design language. The combination of the rich blue dial and the dramatic faceted Hardlex crystal makes this Lord Matic a compelling acquisition for enthusiasts of vintage Japanese horology. It offers a perfect blend of striking aesthetics and dependable mechanical performance, ready to be enjoyed by its next custodian. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Lord Matic line was positioned as a premium offering in the Seiko hierarchy, heavily influenced by the acclaimed design grammar of King Seiko and Grand Seiko. The 5600 series of movements became a cornerstone of Seiko's automatic lineup, celebrated for their thin profile and robust construction. Watches like this faceted Hardlex crystal model reflect an era when Seiko was confidently experimenting with bold geometries and vibrant dial colors, cementing their reputation as innovative leaders in global watchmaking and leaving a lasting legacy in the vintage collector community. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLX-0049