Seiko Lord Marvel 36000 5740-8000 (1969)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This sought-after Seiko Lord Marvel 36000 represents a highly regarded chapter in Japanese watchmaking as the first high-beat watch from the nation, operating at 36,000 vibrations per hour. Powered by the manual-wind Caliber 5740C, this example is distinguished by its attractive linen-textured dial and classic Arabic numerals, offering a compelling visual presence alongside its historical significance. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Marvel 36000 Reference Number: 5740-8000 Serial Number: 920663 Movement: Manual-wind Caliber 5740C, 23 jewels, 36,000 bph Dial: Well-preserved linen texture with applied logo and printed Arabic numerals Case Size: 35mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold-plated, stainless steel caseback Production Year: 1969 Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher: +2+5s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The dial features an attractive linen texture that has been wonderfully preserved, remaining clean overall with minimal signs of age or spotting. An applied Seiko logo and clearly printed Arabic numerals provide excellent legibility and classic charm. The gold-tone dauphine style hands retain their original character with light patina, showing minor oxidation and spotting visible under magnification. Case and Crystal The 35mm gold-plated case displays heavily worn plating with honest use. There is significant gold plating loss on the lugs, alongside scratches and dings on the case flanks. The integrated smooth bezel shows plating wear consistent with the rest of the case. The unsigned knurled crown shows patina and wear. The stainless steel caseback shows light scratches. A domed acrylic crystal covers the dial, displaying light surface scratches while maintaining clear visibility of the well-preserved linen texture beneath. Movement Inside the watch is the manual-wind Caliber 5740C, featuring 23 jewels. The movement presents in excellent visual condition, with clean plates and bridges showing no significant corrosion or damage. Clear engravings read SEIKO, 23 JEWELS, 5740C, and JAPAN. The timegrapher records a rate of +2+5s/day. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring contrast stitching. The strap is in good condition, showing light wear, and is secured by an unsigned clasp. Condition Good vintage condition. The watch presents with heavily worn plating and honest use across the case, including significant gold plating loss on the lugs and scratches on the flanks, while the dial remains beautifully preserved. The domed acrylic crystal shows light surface wear. Supported by the recorded timegrapher result, the movement is performing very strongly. Dimensions The case measures 35mm in diameter (excluding the crown). Remarks This Lord Marvel 36000 is defined by its historically significant high-beat manual-wind Caliber 5740C. The beautifully preserved linen-textured dial and classic Arabic numerals make it a highly desirable configuration for collectors of early high-beat timepieces. History The Lord Marvel 36000 is historically significant as Japan's first high-beat watch, operating at a rapid 36,000 vibrations per hour. The Caliber 5740C high-beat movement was introduced in 1967, pushing the boundaries of mechanical precision for the era. This model is highly regarded by collectors for its historical significance and its role in establishing Seiko's reputation for high-frequency timekeeping. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and securely packaged, then shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We use fast express shipping, with typical delivery within 1–4 business days, depending on the destination. Please note that vintage watches may show minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections, which are considered normal for watches of this age. We kindly ask you to review all photos carefully before bidding. We photograph each watch from multiple angles to provide the most accurate representation possible, and the photos form an important part of the description. The timegrapher assessment if provided is seen as an indication of the movement’s condition under fully wound testing conditions. As with all vintage watches, results may vary in daily use. If you have any concerns regarding functionality or defects after delivery, please contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all used watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-LMX-0007