Seiko - LM Special "Wavy Gradient Blue" - 5206-6100 - Men - 1972

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This is a remarkable example of 1970s Japanese watchmaking excellence, showcasing the highly collectible Seiko Lord Matic Special. Distinguished by its rare "Special" designation, this timepiece features the upgraded 5206 movement which is highly regarded by collectors for its durability and superior engineering compared to the standard Lord Matic calibers. The standout feature is undoubtedly the mesmerizing deep blue textured dial, which mimics a woven fabric or linen pattern, housed beneath a striking original faceted crystal that catches the light from every angle. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Special Reference Number: 5206-6100 Serial Number: 254708 Movement: Automatic Cal. 5206A Dial: Deep blue textured "linen" style Case Size: 36 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition featuring a pristine textured dial, sharp unpolished case lines, and a healthy movement running within vintage tolerances. Dial and Hands The dial is the highlight of this timepiece, presenting a deep blue hue with an intricate vertical texture often referred to as a "fiber" or "linen" finish. It features applied faceted silver hour markers, with the 12, 6, and 9 o'clock markers accented by subtle golden details that complement the gold applied "LM" logo. The baton-style hands are sharp and corrosion-free, offering excellent legibility against the dark textured background. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, featuring a Kanji and English day wheel. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case retains its original sharp geometry, characteristic of Seiko's "Grammar of Design" era, with crisp edges and brushed surfaces meeting polished bevels. The watch is fitted with a distinct faceted crystal (cut glass), a signature of the high-end LM Special and Vanac lines, which adds a gem-like quality to the presentation. Movement Powering the watch is the high-grade Seiko Caliber 5206A automatic movement, featuring 23 jewels. This "Special" variant was a tier above the standard 56-series movements of the time. The watch is currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher results showing approximately +36 to +37 seconds per day, indicating reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch comes mounted on its original stainless steel bracelet, complete with the correct "LM" signed folding clasp. The bracelet fits a wrist size of approximately 19 cm and integrates seamlessly with the case design. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved with no visible staining or degradation to the texture. The case shows honest signs of wear consistent with age, including light surface scratches, but retains its original factory definition. The faceted crystal is clear and allows the dial texture to shine through beautifully. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic and versatile fit on the wrist. Remarks The Lord Matic Special is becoming increasingly difficult to find in such clean condition, especially with the desirable blue textured dial and intact faceted crystal. It represents a fantastic entry point into high-end vintage Seiko collecting, offering distinct 1970s styling mixed with mechanical sophistication. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Lord Matic line was positioned just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines, serving as Seiko's mid-tier luxury offering. The "Special" versions, introduced slightly later, featured the 52-series movements which operated at a higher beat rate and were constructed to higher standards than the base models. These movements eventually became the foundation for the resurrected King Seiko lines in the 1990s, cementing their legacy in horological history. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI1CLG0F9000