Seiko Lord Matic 榮環 – Eikan 5606-5140 (1973)

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic is a definitive piece of 1970s Japanese horology, sitting just below the King Seiko in the hierarchy while offering incredible value and distinctive style. This specific example features a mesmerizing deep blue sunburst dial paired with the highly collectible faceted crystal, creating a play of light that is truly captivating. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-5140 Serial Number: 313009 Movement: Automatic Cal. 5606A Dial: Deep blue sunburst Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest wear to the case and crystal consistent with age, while the dial remains well-preserved and visually striking. Dial and Hands The dial is a stunning example of Seiko's mastery with colored dials, featuring a rich, deep blue sunburst finish that shifts in tone depending on the angle of light. It is adorned with raised, faceted silver-tone hour markers and the polished Seiko logo at the twelve o'clock position. The "LM" and "25 Jewels" text is crisp, sitting above the Suwa factory symbol. The polished baton hands are in excellent condition, complementing the overall aesthetic, while the framed day and date window at three o'clock adds practical functionality to this elegant timepiece. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36mm and presents a classic 1970s cushion shape with a blend of brushed and polished surfaces. The defining feature of this reference is the original faceted mineral crystal, which adds a unique geometric dimension and plays with light beautifully. The case shows honest wear with surface marks and scratches throughout, retaining its original lines and unpolished character. The crystal exhibits visible scratches on the facets consistent with vintage use, yet clearly displays the unique "cut glass" aesthetic these models are famous for. Movement Powering this watch is the high-grade Seiko Caliber 5606A automatic movement, a robust 25-jewel engine known for its reliability. This movement features both hand-winding and hacking capabilities, which were premium features for the era. The movement is clean and is running within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch comes fitted on its original stainless steel Seiko LM bracelet, featuring a comfortable multi-link design that contours well to the wrist. The folding clasp is signed with the "LM" logo, adding to the collectibility of the set. The bracelet accommodates a wrist size of approximately 19cm, making it wearable for a variety of wrist sizes. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition, showing honest signs of wear commensurate with its age and history. While the case and faceted crystal display scratches and marks from decades of use, the dial remains in beautiful condition, preserving the watch's visual impact. It presents as a genuine, unmolested example of 1970s design that wears its history with pride. Dimensions The case measures 36mm in diameter excluding the crown, a classic and versatile size that fits comfortably on modern wrists. Remarks This Seiko Lord Matic is a fantastic representation of the "Space Age" influence on 1970s watch design, particularly with its distinct faceted crystal and vibrant blue dial. The Lord Matic line was Seiko's mid-tier offering, utilizing movements that were often base calibers for the higher-end King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines, ensuring exceptional quality. This specific reference is highly sought after by collectors for its unique crystal geometry and striking color. History The Seiko Lord Matic line was introduced in 1968 and became an instant success, bridging the gap between the mass-market Seiko 5 and the luxury King Seiko models. Manufactured by the Suwa Seikosha factory, these watches were the choice of the rising middle class in Japan, symbolizing modernization and sophisticated taste. The 5606 movement became a legendary workhorse for Seiko, serving as the foundation for chronometer-grade watches and solidifying Seiko's reputation for mechanical excellence during the 1970s. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLX-0026