Seiko - Lord Matic "Gradient Blue Sunburst" 光映 – Kōei – Reflected Light - No reserve price - 5606-7310 - Men - 1973

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This is a visually captivating example of Seiko's design prowess from the 1970s, showcasing the highly collectible Lord Matic series with a rare and distinct faceted crystal configuration. The combination of the angular stainless steel case and the deep electric blue gradient dial creates a mesmerizing play of light that changes with every angle. This specific reference is a fantastic representation of the era's "Grammar of Design," blending sharp lines with bold aesthetics. It serves as both a reliable timepiece and a striking piece of horological art, ready to be worn and admired. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7310 Serial Number: 300508 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Deep blue gradient Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The watch presents beautifully with sharp case lines and a pristine dial, indicating careful preservation over the decades. Dial and Hands The dial is the absolute highlight of this timepiece, featuring a stunning deep blue gradient finish that darkens towards the edges. It is protected by a faceted crystal which acts as a prism, splitting the light and creating a dynamic visual effect that is truly unique to this era of Seiko production. The applied silver and gold-tone hour markers are tall and distinct, matching the faceted hands perfectly. A gold-framed day and date window sits at the three o'clock position, adding a touch of elegance to the colorful display. The dial text is crisp and the applied LM logo remains bright and polished. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features the sharp, geometric styling characteristic of the 1970s, with defined edges and brushed surfaces that appear to be unpolished and original. The unique faceted mineral glass crystal is in remarkable condition, allowing for a clear and distorted-free view of the dial while retaining its defining angular profile. The case back is screw-down and clearly displays all relevant reference and serial numbers, further confirming the excellent preservation of the exterior. Movement Powering this watch is the robust and highly regarded Seiko Caliber 5606 automatic movement. With 23 jewels, this high-grade mechanism was a staple of Seiko's mid-tier luxury offerings, known for its slim profile and reliability. The movement appears clean and offers reliable vintage performance, running within vintage tolerances. Strap The watch is fitted with a high-quality blue leather strap featuring blue stitching. This strap choice perfectly complements the blue tones of the dial, creating a cohesive and stylish look on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is in excellent vintage condition. The dial is flawless with no visible staining or aging. The case retains its original sharp geometry with only very minor handling marks consistent with careful usage. The faceted crystal is clear and sharp. Overall, the watch presents as a very fresh and well-cared-for example of a vintage classic. Dimensions With a case diameter of 37 mm excluding the crown, the watch offers a versatile size that sits prominently on the wrist due to the angular case shape and the height of the faceted crystal. Remarks The Seiko Lord Matic line sits comfortably between the accessible Seiko 5 and the high-end King Seiko and Grand Seiko models. This particular reference 5606-7310 stands out due to its "Vanac-style" faceted crystal and vivid blue dial, features that have made these models increasingly sought after by collectors who appreciate the funkier side of 1970s design. It is a watch that commands attention and offers exceptional value for a piece of this build quality and aesthetic impact. History Introduced in 1968, the Lord Matic series was essential in solidifying Seiko's reputation for automated manufacturing of high-quality mechanical watches. The 5606 movement inside was entirely new at the time, offering a thinner profile than its predecessors and incorporating advanced features for the mass market. By 1973, when this specific watch was produced, the Lord Matic line had evolved to include more adventurous designs, reflecting the bold fashion trends of the decade before the quartz revolution fully took hold. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI5RK4180000