Presented for auction by Second Vintage This remarkable timepiece exemplifies the daring and innovative design language that defined Japanese watchmaking in the 1970s. Combining a highly sophisticated mechanical caliber with an aesthetic that is both bold and elegant, this watch captures the essence of a transformative era in horology. It is a striking statement piece that offers collectors a captivating blend of dynamic visual texture and precise engineering. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Special Reference Number: 5216-7020 Serial Number: 434795 Movement: Automatic, Caliber 5216A, 23 Jewels Dial: Vibrant textured blue dial with applied faceted indices and gold-tone accents, exceptionally preserved Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless steel with gold-tone fluted bezel Production Date: March 1974 Condition: Good vintage condition with a brilliantly preserved dial and honest case wear Dial and Hands The watch features an absolutely mesmerizing blue dial, characterized by a dynamic, swirling textured pattern that catches the light beautifully and creates a profound sense of depth. Applied faceted silver-tone indices feature black central inserts, with distinctive gold-tone double markers at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions adding a refined touch of contrast. The applied Seiko and Lord Matic logos are crisp and prominent, complemented by pristine white text denoting the Special designation and jewel count. A framed day-date aperture sits cleanly at the 3 o'clock position. The silver-tone baton hands are well-preserved, featuring matching black stripes that tie the design together. The dial remains exceptionally clean, free from notable moisture damage, heavy spotting, or discoloration, presenting a striking and vibrant aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 36 mm stainless steel case exhibits a classic 1970s tonneau profile, retaining strong lines and the original transition between the horizontally brushed upper surfaces and polished flanks. It is crowned by a distinctive gold-tone fluted bezel that provides an elegant framing for the dial. The case displays honest signs of wear consistent with its vintage age, including light surface scratches and handling marks, but remains unpolished in appearance with well-defined geometry. The watch is fitted with a striking faceted crystal, cut with geometric angles that play with the light and amplify the dial's texture. The crystal shows some surface wear and scratches characteristic of its age, but remains highly legible and structurally sound. The screw-down caseback is clearly engraved with the reference 5216-7020 and serial number 434795. Movement Powering this timepiece is the Seiko Caliber 5216A, a high-beat automatic movement renowned for its sophisticated engineering and reliability. Visible through the detailed photographs, the movement is clean and features a rotor distinctively engraved with red lettering indicating 23 jewels and Japanese manufacture. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results show a performance of +21 to +24 seconds per day. Strap The watch is paired with a period-correct stainless steel bracelet featuring a robust and visually engaging block-link design. The brushed and polished finishes of the links complement the case perfectly, showing normal stretch and wear consistent with vintage use. Condition This Lord Matic Special is presented in good vintage condition. The vibrant blue textured dial is the clear highlight, remaining exceptionally well-preserved and free of significant flaws. The stainless steel case and gold-tone bezel exhibit honest, age-consistent wear, maintaining their original architectural integrity. The faceted crystal displays surface marks that speak to its history and regular use. The movement is running well, making this a highly attractive piece for collectors of distinctive vintage horology. Dimensions Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Remarks A quintessential example of Seiko's adventurous design ethos, this Lord Matic Special combines mechanical sophistication with an unforgettable aesthetic. The interplay between the faceted crystal and the swirling blue dial creates a visual experience that is highly sought after by vintage enthusiasts, offering tremendous wrist presence and character. History The Seiko Lord Matic line was introduced in the late 1960s as a premium offering, positioned just below the Grand Seiko and King Seiko tiers. The Special designation, introduced later in the production run, denoted the use of the advanced 52-series movements, which were celebrated for their precision and high-beat operation. These models frequently featured ambitious dial textures and faceted crystals, capturing the bold and optimistic design spirit of the 1970s and securing their place as beloved classics in Seiko's rich history. 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-SLX-0062