Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exceptional Seiko Lord Matic Special perfectly captures the daring and innovative design language of the 1970s Japanese domestic market. Powered by the highly respected 5200 series movement from Daini Seikosha, the LM Special represents a significant technological leap for Seiko during the golden era of mechanical watchmaking. The mesmerizing gradient dial, combined with the faceted crystal and sharp case geometry, offers a masterclass in light play and vintage aesthetic appeal. This piece stands out not only for its striking visual presence but also for its impressive state of preservation, making it a compelling addition to any serious vintage watch collection. Brand: Seiko Model: Lord Matic Special Reference Number: 5216-6020 Serial Number: 380333 Movement: Automatic Caliber 5216A, 25 Jewels Dial: Gradient brown and gold sunburst with applied gold-tone indices, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 36 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1973 Condition: Excellent vintage condition with a remarkably preserved dial and sharp case lines Dial and Hands The dial is a true visual standout, featuring a stunning gradient effect that transitions from a vibrant sunburst golden-brown in the center to a deep, rich black at the outer edges. It is adorned with highly elevated, faceted gold-tone indices featuring black central inserts, which perfectly match the polished gold-tone handset. The applied Seiko and LM logos are crisp and prominent, sitting above the finely printed Special 25 Jewels text and the iconic Daini Seikosha lightning bolt emblem. A framed day and date aperture rests at the three o'clock position. Under close inspection, the dial remains in near-mint condition, devoid of any noticeable spots, staining, moisture damage, or print degradation. The hands retain their sharp edges and clean surfaces, contributing to the watch's highly legible and sophisticated appearance. Case and Crystal The stainless steel case exhibits a quintessential 1970s tonneau silhouette with integrated hooded lugs. The transition between the vertically brushed upper surfaces and the highly polished case flanks remains well-defined, showcasing the original factory geometry. The watch exhibits honest, light handling marks consistent with careful wear over the decades, but avoids any deep scratches or heavy wear that would compromise its structural integrity. The original-style faceted crystal is a defining feature, casting dynamic geometric reflections across the dial while presenting clear visibility. The crystal shows only very faint signs of use, perfectly complementing the robust and well-preserved stainless steel case. The screw-down caseback is sharply engraved with all factory markings, including the serial number, Daini logo, and reference codes. Movement Inside beats the esteemed automatic Caliber 5216A, produced by Daini Seikosha. This 25-jewel movement is renowned for its sophisticated architecture and reliable performance, serving as the foundation for some of Seiko's most respected modern calibers. The movement presents beautifully in the photographs, with clean plates and vibrant red lettering across the rotor. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. The timegrapher indicates a performance of +35 to +42 seconds per day. Strap The watch is fitted with an original Seiko Lord Matic stainless steel bracelet, featuring a distinctive brick-link design that articulates smoothly for excellent wrist comfort. The folding clasp is deeply stamped with the Seiko and LM logos. The bracelet shows moderate, honest wear consistent with the case, maintaining a cohesive and highly attractive vintage presentation suitable for a wrist size up to 18 cm. Condition Excellent vintage condition. The watch has been wonderfully preserved, with a flawless dial and a case that retains its sharp lines and distinct finishes. The combination of the original LM-signed bracelet and the clear faceted crystal elevates the overall aesthetic, presenting a piece that is both highly collectible and ready for regular enjoyment. Dimensions The case measures 36 mm in diameter excluding the crown, offering a classic and versatile vintage profile that wears comfortably and confidently on the wrist. Remarks The Seiko Lord Matic Special series is highly regarded among collectors for bridging the gap between standard production models and the elite Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines. The inclusion of the 5216 movement and the spectacular gradient dial configuration makes this specific reference particularly desirable. History Introduced in the late 1960s and refined throughout the 1970s, the Lord Matic line was designed to offer premium features and sophisticated styling to the upwardly mobile professional. The Special designation indicated the use of higher-grade movements, specifically the advanced 5200 series developed by Daini Seikosha. These watches were at the forefront of Seiko's mechanical innovation before the quartz crisis fully took hold, representing a peak of design and engineering that continues to captivate watch enthusiasts around the world. 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-0190