Seiko Lord Matic 5606-7290 (1973)

Presented for auction by Second Vintage A captivating example of Japanese horological artistry, this Seiko Lord Matic encapsulates the bold design language of the 1970s. With its striking gradient dial and robust mechanical foundation, it represents a golden era of Seiko's automatic dress watches, offering both stunning aesthetics and enduring reliability for the discerning vintage collector. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5606-7290 Serial Number: 3N2250 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5606A, 25 Jewels Dial: Gradient grey to black dial with vertical brushing, applied faceted indices, and a pristine surface free of notable blemishes Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably preserved dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The dial is an absolute standout, featuring a sophisticated gradient fumé effect that transitions seamlessly from a lighter metallic grey at the center to a deep charcoal at the edges, further enhanced by a subtle vertical brushed texture. The applied faceted block indices are meticulously detailed with gold-tone accents, catching the light dynamically alongside the applied Seiko logo and the distinctive LM badge. The day and date aperture at the three o'clock position is framed by a crisp gold-tone border, contrasting beautifully against the dark outer edge of the dial. The baton hands feature a central dark stripe and contrasting white inserts, remaining highly legible and exceptionally well preserved. A close visual inspection reveals a remarkably clean dial surface, devoid of any significant spotting, staining, or moisture damage, presenting a stunning and age-consistent appearance. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case is executed in a classic tonneau shape with hooded lugs, characteristic of early 1970s Seiko design. It displays a handsome contrast between the horizontally brushed top surfaces and the brightly polished case flanks. The lug profile retains its structural integrity, exhibiting honest signs of wear, including light superficial scratches and minor handling marks typical of a vintage timepiece, without any deep gouges or signs of heavy over-polishing. The watch is fitted with a clear crystal featuring a sharply beveled edge, which protects the dial perfectly and sits flush with the polished bezel. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the reference number 5606-7290 and serial number 3N2250, remaining highly legible. Movement Inside beats the revered Seiko Caliber 5606A, a 25-jewel automatic movement renowned for its sophisticated architecture and reliable performance. The movement is proudly stamped with the caliber designation and jewel count on the oscillating weight, presenting a clean and mechanically sound appearance. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a deviation of -25 to -30 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a period correct black leather strap featuring an elegant embossed crocodile grain pattern. The strap is completed with a classic stainless steel pin buckle, providing a comfortable and secure fit that perfectly complements the formal yet versatile nature of the timepiece. Condition This timepiece is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is exceptionally well preserved, showing no detrimental aging, while the case exhibits honest, age-appropriate wear that validates its vintage authenticity. The hands and applied dial furniture are crisp and visually striking. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks The Lord Matic line holds a special place in Seiko's history, bridging the gap between standard models and the elite King Seiko and Grand Seiko tiers. This specific reference, with its mesmerizing gradient dial and distinct case geometry, offers an immense amount of vintage charm and horological substance. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Seiko Lord Matic was positioned as a premium offering for the ambitious professional. It utilized the sophisticated 5600 series movements, which were also adapted for use in King Seiko and Grand Seiko models of the era. The Lord Matic series became a canvas for Seiko's most expressive and innovative dial designs, perfectly capturing the aesthetic zeitgeist of the 1970s while delivering uncompromising mechanical excellence. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SAL-0031