Now available at auction from Second Vintage The Seiko Lord Matic represents a golden era of Japanese watchmaking, offering sophisticated mechanical engineering and refined aesthetics that rivaled the top-tier King and Grand Seiko lines of its day. This specific reference 5601-9000 is a highly desirable time-only variant, stripping away the typical day-date complication to present an incredibly balanced, symmetrical dial. Powered by the esteemed 56-series automatic movement, this piece embodies the minimalist elegance of vintage Seiko design, making it a versatile and historically significant addition to any serious collection. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Reference Number: 5601-9000 Serial Number: 334340 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5601, 23 Jewels Dial: Silver sunburst with applied indices, exceptionally clean and well-preserved with no visible spotting Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a pristine dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial is a masterclass in mid-century restraint, featuring a brilliant silver sunburst finish that catches the light beautifully. Applied silver-tone baton indices are detailed with crisp black central inserts, providing excellent legibility and visual depth. The applied Seiko and LM logos sit proudly on the dial, complemented by the printed Suwa factory symbol above the six o'clock position. The dauphine hands mirror the indices perfectly, complete with matching black central stripes and a slender, sweeping seconds hand. Carefully inspecting the dial reveals an exceptionally preserved surface, completely free of moisture marks, spotting, staining, or print loss. It is a remarkably clean example that retains its factory-fresh appeal. Case and Crystal The 36 millimeter stainless steel case exhibits the sharp, angular geometry characteristic of Seiko's finest vintage designs. The transition between the brushed upper lug surfaces and the highly polished case flanks remains well-defined, indicating careful ownership over the decades. This model utilizes a robust front-loading case design, with the solid caseback clearly stamped with the reference number 5601-9000, the serial number 334340, and the Suwa factory logo. The case displays honest, light surface wear and minor handling marks consistent with its age, without any deep gouges or structural damage. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, presenting clearly and enhancing the vintage profile of the watch. Movement Inside beats the Seiko Caliber 5601, a sophisticated 23-jewel automatic movement belonging to the legendary 56-series family. This time-only caliber is celebrated for its reliability, smooth sweeping seconds, and refined architecture, which formed the foundation for many King Seiko and Grand Seiko models of the era. The absence of a date mechanism in this specific caliber eliminates the common vintage Seiko quickset vulnerabilities, ensuring a straightforward and robust mechanical experience. Strap The watch is fitted with a period correct black leather strap featuring an elegant crocodilian grain pattern. It secures to the wrist with a classic stainless steel pin buckle, perfectly complementing the formal yet versatile nature of the timepiece. Condition This Lord Matic is presented in excellent vintage condition. The dial is the clear standout, remaining virtually flawless and free of the aging often seen in watches from this decade. The stainless steel case retains strong, defined lines with only moderate, age-appropriate surface wear. Overall, it is a highly attractive and well-preserved example of a classic Seiko reference. Dimensions The watch measures a classic 36 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks Time-only Lord Matics are increasingly sought after by collectors who appreciate pure dial symmetry and uncluttered design. This example pairs that minimalist aesthetic with an exceptionally well-preserved dial and a robust monocoque-style case, offering a wearing experience that is both elegant and historically rich. History Introduced in the late 1960s, the Seiko Lord Matic line was positioned as a premium offering, sitting just beneath the elite King Seiko and Grand Seiko collections. The LM models were equipped with the advanced 56-series automatic movements, bringing high-beat technology and sophisticated engineering to a wider audience. The time-only 5601 variants are relatively uncommon compared to their day-date counterparts, prized today for their adherence to strict, balanced design principles. They remain a testament to Seiko's dedication to quality and timeless aesthetics during the peak of the mechanical watchmaking era. Payment and Shipping Payment must be completed within 1–3 days after purchase. Your watch will be professionally and very securely packaged, and shipped with tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. We ship via fast express service, with typical delivery in 1–4 business days (destination dependent). Note that with vintage watches, minor signs of wear, aging, or imperfections may be present and are considered normal for watches of this age. Please review all photos carefully before bidding. We strive to photograph each watch from multiple angles for the most accurate representation. The photos form an important part of the description. If there are any concerns of functionality or defects after delivery, make sure to contact us within 3 days of receiving the watch so we can assist you. As with all vintage watches, water resistance is not guaranteed. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us after the auction ends. / Second Vintage SKU: SEI-SLJ-0061