Seiko Lord Matic 5606-5040 (1971)

Available now on auction by Second Vintage This Seiko Lord Matic reference 5606-5040 represents the bold and experimental design language of the early 1970s, featuring a distinctive "TV screen" case shape that captures the retro-futuristic aesthetic of the era. With its deep black dial and sharp stainless steel construction, this piece offers collectors a stylish entry point into the highly respected Lord Matic line, which sat just below King Seiko in the vintage hierarchy. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-5040 Serial Number: 131362 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606 Dial: Black Case Size: 33 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1971 Condition: Good vintage condition. The watch shows honest signs of age and wear consistent with a piece from the early 1970s, retaining a strong and attractive presence. Dial and Hands The watch features a deep black dial that remains in attractive condition, providing a stark and legible contrast against the polished steel hands and applied baton hour markers. The applied "SEIKO" and "LM" logos are crisp and elevated, adding depth to the face. A framed day-date window is positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial creates a sophisticated monochrome look that is versatile for both casual and formal wear. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case features a rectangular "TV screen" design with soft rounded corners, a hallmark of 1970s watch design. The case presents visible surface scratches and signs of wear throughout, particularly on the caseback, which are consistent with its age and use. The case lines remain defined, preserving the original geometry of the watch. The crystal shows some surface marks but remains clear enough to enjoy the dial beneath. Movement Powering this timepiece is the reputable Seiko Caliber 5606 automatic movement, a 23-jewel high-grade engine known for its reliability during this era. Timegrapher readings indicate an accuracy of +26 to +30 seconds per day, which indicates healthy movement offering reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with a black leather strap featuring white contrast stitching, which complements the black dial and adds a sporty yet classic touch to the overall presentation. Condition This timepiece is in good vintage condition. It displays visible scratches and wear on the steel case and caseback, which is expected for an unpolished vintage watch of this age. The dial is well-preserved, while the crystal and bezel show standard handling marks. Overall, it presents as an honest and character-rich vintage example. Dimensions The case measures approximately 33 mm in width excluding the crown. Due to the square case shape, it wears slightly larger on the wrist than a traditional round watch of the same diameter, offering a substantial vintage presence. Remarks This reference 5606-5040 is a charming example of Seiko's design diversity during the golden age of mechanical watchmaking. The combination of the square case and the stark black dial makes it a standout accessory that clearly evokes the style of the 1970s. It is a fantastic choice for enthusiasts looking for a distinctively shaped vintage dress watch with robust mechanics. History Introduced in 1968, the Seiko Lord Matic (LM) line was positioned as a high-quality mid-tier offering, bridging the gap between Seiko's standard automatic models and the high-end Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines. The Lord Matic series was renowned for utilizing the sophisticated 5600-series movements, which were thinner and more advanced than many of their predecessors. These watches played a significant role in solidifying Seiko's reputation for mass-producing high-grade automatic timepieces that offered exceptional value and longevity. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAL-0004