Seiko - LM "Gradient Blue Sunburst" 静耀 – Seiyō – Silent Radiance - No reserve price - 5606-7231 - Men - 1973

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic from the early 1970s represents the funky, geometric creativity of the era, featuring a stunning faceted crystal and a deeply saturated gradient blue dial. The Lord Matic series was positioned as a high-grade offering, utilizing the robust 5606 movement that served as a base for COSC-grade calibers. This specific example combines a striking visual presence with the practicality of a day-date complication featuring both English and Kanji character options. Brand: Seiko Model: LM "Gradient Blue Sunburst" Reference Number: 5606-7231 Serial Number: 377588 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606A Dial: Gradient blue with horizontal banding Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: July 1973 Condition: Good vintage condition. Timegrapher readings show -41 to -50 seconds per day, which indicates the movement is operational and running. Dial and Hands The dial is the standout feature of this timepiece, presenting a rich gradient blue tone that shifts from lighter centers to darker edges, accented by horizontal banding that plays with the light. The applied silver-tone hour markers are block-style and feature white inlays for contrast. The baton hands are polished and consistent with the markers. A framed day-date window is positioned at three o'clock, notably featuring a bilingual day wheel with English and Kanji characters, a desirable trait for collectors. The dial surface appears well-preserved with no major spotting or deterioration visible. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case measures 36mm and follows the classic Seiko design language of the period with integrated lugs and smooth curves. The watch is fitted with a distinct faceted glass crystal, known as "Cut Glass" in Seiko catalogs of the time, which creates unique distortions and light reflections across the dial. The case shows signs of vintage wear, including surface scratches and scuffs on the bezel and case sides consistent with its age. The edges remain relatively defined, maintaining the original silhouette. The caseback displays the Seiko "Suwa" logo and reference numbers clearly. Movement Powering this watch is the Seiko Caliber 5606A, a 23-jewel automatic movement. This caliber was a workhorse of the 1970s, known for its slim profile and reliability. The movement is clean in appearance. As noted, the timegrapher results show a daily rate of approximately -41 to -50 seconds, indicating the watch is functioning within vintage operational parameters. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring a textured finish and contrasting white stitching. The strap is in good condition and complements the sportier, geometric look of the watch case. It attaches securely to the lugs and is ready for wear. Condition This piece is in good vintage condition. The dial is vibrant and clean, preserving the original aesthetic impact. The faceted crystal shows some scratches and marks typical of this glass type, which can be seen in reflections but do not obscure the time. The steel case exhibits honest wear with scratches throughout, particularly on the polished bezel, but is free from major dents or structural damage. Dimensions The case diameter is 36mm excluding the crown, a classic size that sits comfortably on most wrists. The lug-to-lug length ensures a balanced profile, while the faceted crystal adds slightly to the overall thickness, giving the watch a substantial presence on the wrist. Remarks The combination of the faceted crystal and the gradient blue dial makes this 5606-7231 a particularly attractive example of 1970s Japanese watch design. The presence of the Kanji day wheel adds a layer of collectibility. It is a distinctive vintage piece that captures the essence of the distinctive 1970s Seiko styling. History The Seiko Lord Matic (LM) line was introduced in 1968 and served as the company's mid-tier offering, sitting just below the King Seiko and Grand Seiko lines. It brought high-quality automatic movements and sophisticated case designs to a broader market. The 5606 movement used in this series was highly regarded for its thinness and reliability, later evolving into movements used in higher-end Chronometer grade watches. The LM series is celebrated today for its immense variety of dial textures and case shapes, representing a golden age of Seiko creativity. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI1FYCSVA000