Seiko Lord Matic 輝流 (Kiryu) 5606-7010 (1968)

Now available at auction from Second Vintage This vivid and highly collectible Seiko Lord Matic represents the golden era of Japanese watchmaking, combining the "Grammar of Design" case philosophy with a striking electric blue dial. Produced at the renowned Suwa Seikosha factory, this reference 5606-7010 features the desirable "Water Proof" caseback engraving, indicating its early production status before the industry switched to "Water Resistant" terminology. With its unique front-loading case design and original bracelet, this timepiece is a fantastic example of the Lord Matic line, offering both historical significance and undeniable wrist presence. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7010 Serial Number: 8N2100 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Electric Blue Sunburst Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1968 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and honest wear to the case, presenting a sharp and attractive appearance. Dial and Hands The centerpiece of this watch is the mesmerizing electric blue dial which remains in exceptional condition. It features polished steel applied indices with black inlays and a matching baton handset. The surface of the dial is clean and vibrant, free from the spotting often seen on vintage pieces. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, featuring a desirable Kanji and English day wheel. The applied Seiko and Lord Matic logos are crisp and bright. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case utilizes a monocoque "front-loading" design, which eliminates the traditional caseback opening to improve water resistance and structural integrity. The case retains its sharp factory lines and distinct shape, showing moderate surface scratches and signs of use consistent with its age. The back features deep and clearly legible engravings, including the "Open Thru Glass" instructions and the rare "Water Proof" designation. The crystal shows light marks but remains clear. Movement Powering the watch is the high-grade Seiko Caliber 5606 automatic movement. This 25-jewel movement was a distinct step up from standard Seiko offerings of the time, featuring hacking capabilities and hand-winding support. The watch is currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher results showing +22 to +27 seconds per day, indicating a healthy mechanism for a watch of this vintage. Strap The watch is fitted with its original stainless steel multi-link bracelet, often referred to as a "beads of rice" style, which adds significant vintage charm and comfort. It is finished with a signed Seiko deployant clasp. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of approximately 18cm. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is stunningly preserved, acting as the highlight of the watch. The case shows honest wear with visible scratches but no signs of over-polishing, preserving the original geometry. The movement is functioning correctly with the day and date changing as intended. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic dress watch proportion that sits comfortably on the wrist. The lug width is 18mm. Remarks This specific example stands out due to the combination of the vibrant blue dial and the monocoque case construction. The "8N" serial number dates this piece precisely to November 1968, making it an early execution of the Lord Matic series. The presence of the Kanji day wheel makes it particularly desirable for collectors seeking JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) specifications. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic (LM) line was positioned just below the King Seiko and Grand Seiko in the hierarchy, offering high-quality automatic movements and sophisticated finishing for the upwardly mobile Japanese professional. The 5606 movement became one of Seiko's most ubiquitous and reliable high-beat adjacent movements, serving as the foundation for many of their chronometer-grade watches. The Lord Matic series is today celebrated for bringing high-end design language to a more accessible price point, and early "Water Proof" examples like this one are increasingly sought after. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI1JQMCOL000