Seiko Lord Matic 輝流 (Kiryu) 5606-5010 (1969)

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic offers a distinctive and highly collectible aesthetic that perfectly bridges the gap between late 1960s design and the bold geometries of the 1970s. With its striking "TV-screen" case shape and deep blue dial, this timepiece represents a golden era of Japanese watchmaking where the Lord Matic line stood as a high-grade offering just below King Seiko and Grand Seiko. The combination of the sharp stainless steel case and the reliable automatic movement makes this a sophisticated choice for collectors who appreciate both design history and mechanical capability. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-5010 Serial Number: 974987 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606A Dial: Deep Blue Case Size: 41 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1969 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch presents an honest and attractive vintage character with a pristine dial that balances the external signs of wear. Dial and Hands The centerpiece of this watch is its deep blue dial, which remains in remarkable condition. The applied silver-tone hour markers and the crisp "LM" logo add depth and texture to the face. The hands are sharp and free of corrosion, maintaining excellent legibility. A framed day and date window is positioned at 3 o'clock, adding practical utility to the elegant layout. The dial text is sharp and unblemished, showcasing the high quality of Seiko's manufacturing during this period. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features the iconic "TV-screen" or cushion shape that became a hallmark of the era. The case retains its original geometry with a mix of brushed surfaces on the bezel area and polished sides. There are visible scratches and marks on the case and bezel consistent with its age and use. The caseback features the desirable "Waterproof" engraving, a detail that confirms its production prior to the terminology shift to "Water Resistant" in the early 1970s. The crystal is original and shows noticeable scratches and marks across the surface, which is typical for a watch of this vintage that has been enjoyed. Movement Powering the watch is the highly regarded Seiko Caliber 5606A, a 25-jewel automatic movement known for its robustness and precision. This movement was a staple of Seiko's mid-to-high-range watches and features hacking capabilities for precise time setting. The movement is clean and is currently running within vintage tolerances, with timegrapher results showing -12-18s/day, indicating a healthy mechanism for a watch of this age. Strap The watch is fitted with a modern black strap featuring contrasting white stitching. The strap is in excellent, unworn condition and complements the dark tones of the dial while providing a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. While the crystal and case show evident signs of wear including scratches and handling marks, the dial remains exceptionally well-preserved. The overall presentation is honest and charming, retaining the sharp lines and character that collectors seek in vintage Seiko pieces. Dimensions The case measures 41 mm, providing a substantial and modern presence on the wrist due to the square cushion design which wears larger than traditional round cases. Remarks This specific reference is a wonderful example of the "Waterproof" era Lord Matics, making it a specific point of interest for collectors dating the transition of Seiko's caseback stamping protocols. History The Lord Matic (LM) line was introduced by Seiko in 1968 as a successor to the Lord Marvel. It was positioned as a high-grade automatic watch, sitting just below the prestigious King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines in the corporate hierarchy. The LM series played a crucial role in bringing high-quality automatic movements and avant-garde case designs to a wider audience, solidifying Seiko's reputation for blending style with mechanical excellence in the late 1960s and 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI195L5W6000