Seiko - Lord Marvel 36000 - No reserve price - 5740-8000 - Men - 1972

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This is a magnificent example of Japanese horological history, representing a pivotal era in precision watchmaking. The Lord Marvel line holds a prestigious place in Seiko’s archives, and the introduction of the 36,000 bph hi-beat movement elevated it to legendary status. This particular piece is distinguished not only by its mechanical pedigree but also by its exceptionally elegant linen dial adorned with crisp Arabic numerals, offering a refined aesthetic that remains highly sought after by discerning collectors. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Marvel 36000 Reference Number: 5740-8000 Serial Number: 242379 Movement: Manual winding, Caliber 5740C, 23 Jewels Dial: Silver linen-textured dial with printed black Arabic numerals, remarkably clean condition with an even finish Case Size: 35 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1972 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with an exceptionally well-preserved dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial of this Lord Marvel is a visual delight, featuring a prominent vertical and horizontal brushed linen texture that plays beautifully with the light. It is adorned with highly legible, black printed Arabic numerals in an elegant serif typeface, paired with an applied silver-tone "SEIKO" logo at the twelve o'clock position. The lower half features the proud "LORD MARVEL 36000" designation above the Suwa Seikosha factory symbol. The dial itself is in outstanding vintage condition, remaining remarkably clean and free from moisture damage, heavy spotting, or discoloration, presenting a wonderfully preserved face. The dauphine-style hands are rendered in a blackened metal finish, providing excellent contrast against the textured silver backdrop. Under close inspection, the hands exhibit honest age-consistent surface oxidation and minor localized spotting, authenticating the vintage nature of the timepiece without detracting from its overall elegant appearance. Case and Crystal The 35mm stainless steel case exemplifies Seiko’s classic mid-century design language, featuring sharp, faceted lug profiles and beautifully defined factory chamfers that seamlessly transition into the polished case flanks. The smooth polished bezel frames the dial perfectly, showing only light, honest handling marks consistent with careful wear over the decades. The case retains strong structural integrity and crisp lines, avoiding the over-polished appearance often found in watches of this era. The screw-down stainless steel caseback is deeply and clearly engraved with the reference 5740-8000, the serial number 242379, and the Suwa factory logo, all remaining highly legible. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal that presents clearly, showing only faint superficial wear that does not obscure the intricate details of the dial beneath. Movement Powering this timepiece is the celebrated Seiko Caliber 5740C manual-winding movement, featuring 23 jewels and operating at a high-beat frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour. The close-up imagery reveals a pristine mechanical landscape, with clean, well-preserved bridges, bright gears, and clear factory engravings denoting the caliber and jewel count. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher results indicate an impressive +8 to +11 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct dark brown leather strap featuring a classic crocodile grain pattern and tonal stitching. It is secured with a traditional stainless steel pin buckle, complementing the dressy nature of the timepiece while offering a comfortable fit on the wrist. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The case remains robust and sharp, displaying normal and acceptable signs of careful use. The dial is exceptionally well-preserved, standing out as a premium example of the linen variant, while the hands show natural, age-appropriate surface oxidation. The movement is visually clean and mechanically strong, reflecting proper care throughout its life. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The proportions are classically restrained, offering an elegant and understated presence suitable for a variety of wrist sizes. Remarks Finding a Lord Marvel 36000 with a linen dial and Arabic numerals in such honest, well-preserved condition is a rare opportunity. The combination of the high-frequency mechanical engine and the highly textured, dress-oriented dial makes this an incredibly versatile and historically significant addition to any serious vintage watch portfolio. History The Seiko Lord Marvel was originally introduced in the late 1950s as the brand's flagship luxury model before the advent of Grand Seiko. In 1967, Seiko utilized the Lord Marvel line to introduce its very first 36,000 bph high-beat movement, the Caliber 5740C. This technological leap was a direct response to the Swiss watch industry's push for higher frequency movements to achieve greater chronometric precision. The Lord Marvel 36000 paved the way for the legendary high-beat Grand Seiko and King Seiko models that would follow, cementing Seiko's reputation as a powerhouse of precision mechanical watchmaking on the global stage. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-LXX-0005