Seiko LM Special 5216-8020 (1976)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This Seiko LM Special is a sought-after collector favourite, distinguished by its sharp faceted case geometry and the impressive high-beat 5216A movement. Adding a layer of distinct historical character, the caseback features a unique 1976 corporate presentation engraving from Nippon Telegraph and Telephone, making this a highly individual example of premium 1970s Japanese watchmaking. Brand: Seiko Model: LM Special Reference Number: 5216-8020 Serial Number: 673634 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 5216A, 23 jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices and Kanji day-date Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1976 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Timegrapher: +14+18s/day, performing remarkably well. Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial is preserved in pristine condition, offering a highly legible and refined visual presence. It features applied indices with black central inserts that perfectly match the central stripes of the baton hands. The day-date window frame is notably clean and displays a Kanji day wheel. There is no visible spotting, staining, or discoloration across the dial surface, and the metal surfaces of the hands remain clean with no visible oxidation or corrosion, reflecting excellent preservation. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case exhibits sharp faceted lug geometry with well-defined edges, showcasing the historical character of 1970s design. The brushed top surfaces contrast beautifully with the polished flanks, while the polished smooth bezel is seamlessly integrated into the case structure. Wear is limited to light surface and hairline scratches consistent with careful use over the decades. The caseback displays a distinct corporate presentation engraving including the year 1976. The knurled crown features an unsigned flat face. A flat, clear crystal protects the dial, showing no significant scratches, chips, or crazing visible. Movement Inside beats the Seiko Caliber 5216A automatic movement, clearly engraved with the Seiko signature, Japan, and 23 jewels. The movement presents beautifully, with clean plates and a clean rotor showing no visible corrosion, oxidation, or damage. The movement recorded +14+18s/day on the timegrapher. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching. The strap appears new or minimally worn and is secured by an unsigned clasp. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The case remains well-preserved with crisp lines and only light surface scratches indicating careful wear. The dial and hands are pristine, free of oxidation or discoloration. The movement is clean and, supported by the recorded timegrapher result, is performing very strongly. Dimensions The case measures 37 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks This LM Special is notable for its pristine silver dial, the highly regarded high-beat 5216A caliber, and the wonderfully sharp faceted case. The 1976 Nippon Telegraph and Telephone presentation engraving provides a specific and appealing historical anchor to a premium vintage Seiko. History The LM Special was positioned as a high-end model within the Lord Matic line, sitting just below the flagship Grand Seiko and King Seiko collections. The case architecture of the 5216-8020 reflects Taro Tanaka's Grammar of Design, characterized by sharp lines, angular corners, and highly reflective flat surfaces. Powering the watch is the Caliber 5216A, a hi-beat automatic movement operating at 28,800 beats per hour. This caliber is part of the historically significant 52 stream of movements produced by the Daini factory, which Seiko later resurrected in the 1990s as the foundation for their high-end 4S caliber family. 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-LSX-0004