The story of the Lord Marvel is an important piece of Seiko history. At one time, a flagship of the brand, the Lord Marvel was a playground for technical prowess on the part of designers at Seiko. Produced alongside the elegant and deeply refined Crown line, it was these two models that would eventually be merged and serve as the foundation for Grand Seiko. The first Lord Marvels were released in 1958 and were considered a premier product. Years later, they would claim a Seiko first as the initial Hi-Beat offering by way of the 36,000 bph 5740C. In between was the beautiful evolution of a timepiece that nearly a half century later still turns heads at every encounter. Specifically the 5740-0010. If mid-century modern styling and timeless detail could be expressed in just one watch, then this is it. A perfect 36mm case with polished finishes throughout, crisp tapered lugs, and a seamless bezel serve as the house for one of Seiko’s greatest dials. A shimmering silver north/south grain beneath a glossy lacquered finish with just two lines of text. “Lord Marvel” in a beautiful script above “Diashock 23 Jewels” in a concise print. Detailed applied baguettes with a mirror finish mark the hours, and the hands are sloping tapered dauphines that bring boldness and sophistication. The case back is etched with Seiko’s  crowned “Seahorse” emblem notating its water resistant design. This example from November of 1965 speaks for itself. It is remarkably well preserved and completely original aside from the acrylic crystal. Paired with a dark brown distressed leather, it is the only three hander you’ll ever need. Truly a minimalist masterpiece.

Clockwork Synergy Dark Brown Distressed Leather with Reverse Stitch (clockworksynergy.com)

Serviced 5/29/18