Seiko Lord Matic 5606-7231 (1974)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic from November 1974 is a spectacular representation of Japanese watch design from the mid-1970s, featuring a highly desirable combination of a vibrant blue dial and a distinctive faceted crystal. The Lord Matic series was positioned as a high-grade automatic line, and this specific example showcases the adventurous aesthetics of the era with its cut glass and bold case architecture. It offers a perfect entry point into vintage Seiko collecting, combining robust mechanical engineering with a striking visual presence on the wrist. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7231 Serial Number: 4N3646 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606A Dial: Deep blue sunburst Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1974 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest wear to the case and crystal consistent with its age, while the dial remains in stunning condition with a vibrant finish. Dial and Hands The centerpiece of this timepiece is the mesmerizing deep blue sunburst dial which plays beautifully with the light. It features applied silver baton indices with multi-faceted surfaces that complement the hands. The original faceted crystal, a signature element of this specific reference, creates a prism effect that adds unique depth and character to the dial. A framed day and date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, and the applied "LM" logo sits proudly above the 6 o'clock position. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel case features the classic curves and sharp lines typical of Seiko's 1970s design language. The case surfaces show normal signs of vintage wear with surface scratches visible, yet the case profile remains well-defined. The defining feature is the faceted mineral crystal, which retains its distinct geometric cut, though it does exhibit scratches and wear marks commensurate with the age of the watch. Movement Powering the watch is the highly regarded Seiko Caliber 5606A automatic movement. This 23-jewel movement was a tier above standard Seiko movements of the time, offering reliable vintage performance. The movement appears clean and honest in the photographs, running within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap featuring an alligator grain pattern. It is secured by a silver-tone buckle, providing a dressy contrast to the vibrant blue dial and ensuring a comfortable fit for daily wear. Condition This Lord Matic is in good vintage condition. The stainless steel case shows surface scratches and signs of use but retains its original geometry without signs of over-polishing. The faceted crystal shows visible scratches and wear, which is common for this type of glass from the 70s. However, the dial itself is in excellent preservation, free from significant staining or damage. Dimensions With a case diameter of 36 mm excluding the crown, this watch sits comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. The lug-to-lug length and the curvature of the case ensure it wears elegantly, fitting easily under a shirt cuff while still commanding attention due to the faceted crystal. Remarks This reference 5606-7231 is particularly collectible due to the "disco" era influence seen in the faceted crystal and colorful dial. It represents a time when Seiko was experimenting boldly with case shapes and glass treatments. The blue dial variant is especially sought after for its rich color and how it interacts with the cut glass. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic (LM) line was situated between the Seiko Matic and the Grand Seiko/King Seiko lines. It was a core part of Seiko's strategy to bring high-quality automatic movements to a broader audience. The 5606 movement inside was so well-engineered that it served as the base for higher-end chronometer-grade movements. This specific example from 1974 captures the transition into more geometric and expressive designs that defined the middle of the decade. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI1GYXIFJ000