Seiko - Lord Matic 冷霞 – Reika – Cold Haze - No reserve price - 7019-7050 - Men - 1968

Available now on auction by Second Vintage From the golden era of Japanese watchmaking comes this exceptional Seiko Lord Matic, an early production model dating back to June 1968. The Lord Matic series was positioned as a high-grade automatic line, serving as the bridge between the standard Seiko range and the prestigious King Seiko and Grand Seiko models. This particular reference is highly desirable due to its intricate linen-textured dial and "Water Proof" caseback designation, a marking that was phased out shortly shortly after this watch was produced, identifying it as a true collector's piece from the launch year of the 5606 caliber. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7050 Serial Number: 860507 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Silver linen texture Case Size: 35 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition Dial and Hands The highlight of this timepiece is the stunning silver dial featuring a vertical linen texture that catches the light beautifully, adding depth and sophistication to the wrist. The dial is adorned with applied polished steel baton indices with black inlays, matched by slender sword-style hands. Tucked at the three o'clock position is a framed day-date window with a bilingual disc, showing sharp contrast against the textured background. The applied "SEIKO" and "LM" logos remain crisp and elevated, signifying the quality tier of this model. Some dial wear is present, please review the pictures for accurate representation. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a distinct cushion shape with a monocoque "front-loading" construction, evidenced by the "Open Thru Glass" inscription on the back. This typically ensures better water resistance and a slimmer profile. The case retains its original geometry with polished sides and brushed upper surfaces, showing light wear consistent with a carefully preserved watch of this vintage. The acrylic crystal is clear, allowing for an unobstructed view of the intricate dial texture. The caseback clearly displays the reference 5606-7050 and the early "Water Proof" text, a detail prized by Seiko historians. Movement Powering the watch is the highly regarded Seiko Caliber 5606, a 25-jewel automatic movement. This caliber was a technical marvel of its time, offering a higher beat rate and hacking capabilities, forming the base for many Chronometer-grade movements of the era. It is running within vintage tolerances and offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a classic black leather strap featuring an embossed lizard-grain pattern. The strap is in good condition and complements the dressy yet versatile aesthetic of the silver linen dial, making it ready for immediate wear. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is remarkably well-preserved with no visible staining or oxidation on the linen finish. The case shows minor surface scratches typical of a watch from the late 1960s but maintains strong lines without signs of over-polishing. The movement is clean and functional. Dimensions The case measures 35mm in diameter, excluding the crown, offering a classic vintage proportion that sits comfortably and discreetly under a shirt cuff. Remarks This Lord Matic represents one of the most attractive configurations of the 5606 reference family. The combination of the "Water Proof" caseback, which dates it securely to the late 1960s, and the sophisticated linen dial makes it a standout example. It captures the essence of Seiko's "Grammar of Design" period where legibility, precision, and beauty were balanced perfectly. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic (LM) line was a significant step forward for Seiko, bringing high-end automatic movements to a broader audience. It utilized the completely new 56 series movement, which was thinner and more advanced than its predecessors. The Lord Matic was an immense success in Japan and abroad, becoming the definitive "middle manager" watch of the era—a symbol of reliability and ascending status. This specific example, produced in the very first year of the model's life, serves as a wonderful artifact of Seiko's rapid ascent to global watchmaking dominance. /Second Vintage SKU: SEI1VNVKH9000