Seiko Lord Matic 皇光 (Kōkō) 5606-7290 (1974)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic is a striking example of the Japanese manufacturer's design prowess during the 1970s, featuring a captivating blue gradient dial that immediately draws the eye. The Lord Matic line was positioned as a high-grade automatic series, incorporating the sophisticated "Grammar of Design" case lines and robust movements that defined the era. With its faceted crystal and gold-tone accents against the cool blue tones, this timepiece offers a distinct vintage aesthetic that is both collectible and highly wearable. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7290 Serial Number: 450151 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Blue Gradient Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Excellent condition. The watch shows minimal signs of use to the case, with the dial remaining in outstanding, well-preserved condition. Dial and Hands The dial features a beautiful gradient finish that transitions from a lighter center to a deep blue at the periphery. It is adorned with applied gold-tone faceted hour markers and the applied "SEIKO" and "LM" logos. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, featuring a bilingual English and Kanji day wheel, a desirable feature for collectors. The gold-tone hands are exceptionally preserved, showing minimal to no aging. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features the sharp, angular lines characteristic of Seiko's 1970s design language. The case displays only light surface marks, with lugs and bezel retaining their original definition. The watch is fitted with a distinctive faceted crystal which catches the light dramatically and is very well preserved with only minor surface wear to the facets. The screw-down caseback displays the Suwa Seikosha factory symbol and clearly legible engravings. Movement Powering the watch is the reliable Seiko Caliber 5606 automatic movement with 25 jewels. This movement series was a workhorse for Seiko's mid-to-high range watches. Timegrapher testing indicates the movement is running between -51 and -58 seconds per day, which indicates the movement remains functional and consistent with vintage examples. Strap The watch has been fitted with a new black leather strap with a smooth finish. It creates a classic contrast against the stainless steel case and complements the darker tones of the gradient dial. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent condition. The dial is the highlight, preserved with vibrant color and clarity. The case exhibits only minor signs of gentle handling, maintaining its vintage charm and definition. The crystal facets remain sharp, showing minimal wear. Dimensions With a case diameter of 36 mm, the watch offers classic vintage proportions that sit comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. The angular lug design gives it a slightly stronger presence than the dimensions might suggest. Remarks This specific reference is notable for its combination of the gradient dial and faceted crystal, a hallmark of 1970s funk and flair. The presence of the Kanji day wheel adds significant collector appeal, rooting the watch in its Japanese domestic market heritage. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic (LM) line was situated between the Seiko Matic and the Grand Seiko/King Seiko lines in terms of hierarchy. It was designed to offer high-quality automatic movements in stylish, modern cases. The 5606 caliber found in this watch was one of Seiko's most advanced mass-produced movements of the time, featuring a thin profile that allowed for sleek case designs, helping to cement Seiko's reputation for mechanical excellence in the 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAJ-0016