Seiko - Lord Marvel 36000 銀寂 – Ginjaku – Silent Silver - No reserve price - 5740-8000 - Men - 1974

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This is a remarkable opportunity to acquire a horologically significant piece of Japanese watchmaking history: the Seiko Lord Marvel 36000. Renowned for being the first Japanese watch to feature a high-beat movement running at 36,000 vibrations per hour, this timepiece offers a mesmerizingly smooth sweeping seconds hand that rivals modern luxury standards. This specific example is preserved in exceptional condition, showcasing the clean lines and technical prowess that defined Seiko's golden era in the 1970s. It represents the perfect entry point for collectors seeking a high-beat movement without the premium price point of a Grand Seiko. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Marvel 36000 Reference Number: 5740-8000 Serial Number: 471015 Movement: Manual Winding Caliber 5740C High-Beat Dial: Silver sunburst with applied baton indices Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Stunning vintage condition with a near-flawless dial and a sharp, well-preserved case. Timegrapher results indicate excellent mechanical health. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is in spectacular condition, retaining a bright and uniform finish that plays beautifully with the light. It features crisp black text including the proud "Lord Marvel 36000" designation and the Suwa Seikosha logo above six o'clock. The applied polished steel baton indices are multifaceted and free of corrosion, matching the sharp dauphine hands which feature a black center stripe for enhanced legibility. The overall presentation of the dial is incredibly clean, showing virtually no signs of aging. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case follows the classic Seiko design language of the era with strong, angular lugs and clean surfaces. The case lines remain sharp and distinct, suggesting the watch has been treated with great care over its lifetime. There are only very minor surface handling marks consistent with a carefully stored vintage piece. The crystal is clear and free from distracting scratches, allowing for an unobstructed view of the pristine dial. The caseback features the correct horseshoe text arrangement and clearly legible reference and serial numbers. Movement Powering this timepiece is the legendary Seiko Caliber 5740C manual winding movement. This 23-jewel mechanism is famous for its 36,000 beats per hour frequency, which allows for higher precision and a heavily sweeping second hand. The movement is clean and aesthetically pleasing. Timegrapher testing indicates the watch is running within excellent vintage tolerances at approximately +3 to +8 seconds per day, offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a striking black leather strap featuring a unique textured scale pattern and white contrast stitching. This high-quality strap adds a contemporary flair to the vintage aesthetic and is secured with a steel pin buckle. The strap is in excellent condition and complements the silver tones of the case and dial perfectly. Condition This Lord Marvel 36000 is in stunning vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, and the case retains its architectural integrity with sharp edges. The movement is mechanically sound and operating with the distinct high-beat hum that collectors cherish. Dimensions The case measures 35 mm in diameter excluding the crown, which was a classic men's size for the period and wears elegantly on the wrist today. The lug-to-lug length ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes, while the relatively slim profile allows it to slide easily under a dress cuff. Remarks The Lord Marvel 36000 is a true sleeper in the vintage watch market. It shares the same high-beat DNA as its more expensive Grand Seiko siblings but is often found in more utilitarian cases. This example stands out due to its superb preservation and the historical importance of the 5740C caliber. It is a watch that commands respect from horologists and looks sophisticated on the wrist. History Introduced in 1967, the Lord Marvel 36000 was a technical marvel that demonstrated Seiko's ability to compete with the finest Swiss manufactures. It was the testing ground for the high-frequency technology that would later be implemented in the Grand Seiko line. The 5740-8000 reference is a testament to the "accuracy race" of the late 1960s and early 1970s, making it a pivotal reference in the timeline of Japanese watchmaking. / Second Vintage SKU: SEIZHHN630000