Seiko - LM Special "Gradient Golden Sunburst" 悠久 (Yūkyū) – Eternal - 5216-6020 - Men - 1973

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This is an exceptional opportunity to acquire a highly collectible Seiko LM Special from the golden era of Japanese watch design. Distinguished by its "Special" designation, this model features an upgraded high-grade movement and a spectacular visual presentation that defines 1970s aesthetics. The combination of the faceted crystal and the deep amber gradient dial creates a captivating play of light, making this timepiece a true conversation starter and a rare find in such well-preserved condition. Brand: Seiko Model: LM Special Reference Number: 5216-6020 Serial Number: 390069 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5216A Dial: Gradient amber sunburst with faceted crystal Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Stunning vintage condition. The watch presents beautifully with crisp edges, a stunning dial, and a clean movement, indicating a very well-preserved life. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, boasting a mesmerizing gradient amber sunburst finish that transitions from a golden center to a deep brown at the periphery. It is protected by a striking faceted mineral crystal that catches the light from every angle, enhancing the depth of the dial. The applied gold-tone indices and baton hands are in excellent condition, providing sharp contrast and legibility. The day-date window is elegantly framed in gold, and the applied Seiko and LM logos remain crisp and bright. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36 mm and retains its sharp, original factory geometry, showcasing the famous "Grammar of Design" lines that Seiko is renowned for. The alternating brushed and polished surfaces are well-preserved with minimal signs of wear. The screw-down caseback is clean, with deep and legible engravings of the reference and serial numbers. The faceted crystal is in remarkable condition, free from the heavy chipping often seen on these models, ensuring a clear view of the dial. Movement Powering this watch is the high-grade Automatic Caliber 5216A, a 25-jewel movement that was a significant step up from the standard Lord Matic engines. This movement features a quickset day and date function and is known for its durability and engineering quality. The movement is clean and presents well visually. It is currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher results showing approximately +29 to +34 seconds per day, which indicates a healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel multi-link bracelet, which is a significant value add for collectors. The clasp features the embossed LM logo and is in excellent working order. The bracelet fits a wrist size of approximately 17.5 cm and complements the angular design of the case perfectly, completing the authentic vintage profile. Condition This example is in stunning vintage condition. The dial is pristine with no visible staining or damage. The case retains its architectural edges and shows only very minor handling marks consistent with a watch that has been cherished. The movement is clean, and the faceted crystal is exceptionally well-preserved. Dimensions The case diameter is 36 mm excluding the crown, a classic size that offers a sophisticated presence on the wrist suitable for both formal and casual wear. Remarks The Seiko LM Special is becoming increasingly rare, especially with the desirable faceted crystal and original bracelet intact. The 5216 movement is historically significant as the ancestor to Seiko's modern high-end 4S calibers. This specific example, with its stunning amber dial and sharp case, represents investment-grade quality for the vintage Seiko enthusiast. History Introduced in the 1970s, the Lord Matic line was positioned just below the King Seiko and Grand Seiko, offering exceptional finishing and advanced movements to the mid-tier market. The "Special" designation was reserved for models with superior movements, specifically the 5200 series, which operated at a higher beat rate and offered better stability than the base models. These watches are celebrated today for bringing high-end horology and avant-garde design to a wider audience during Japan's economic boom. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLS-0017