As the 1960’s drew to a close, both Seiko’s Suwa and Daini divisions were delivering on greatness through the Grand and King Seiko lines by upstaging everyone, including the Swiss, at their own game in terms of accurate and high quality watch movements. It’s important to remember however, that the KS was only possible due to the advancements made possible through the evolution of its predecessors the Marvel and Lord Marvel lines. Peaking with the 5740C, Seiko’s first true high beat, the hand wound Lord Marvel was ready to lend it’s name to a fresh series of automatics by way of the new cal. 56 movements, and Lord Matic was born. Though they never received the attention or accolades given to the GS and KS lines, the LM models are equally as impressive, and a worthy addition to any collection. Especially those few variants that carry the “Special” designation. From September of 1973, this LM Special is a hi-beat beauty with GS architecture, and at less than half the price of it’s KS counterpart, a true bargain. The dial is a silver sunburst with subtle graining and a glossy lacquer finish set with polished and striped applied baguettes. Though some wear to the lacquer has developed along the three o’clock edge, it does little to detract from the overall appearance. The hour and minute hands are slender polished batons striped to match, and a slim, reaching sweep glides along the minute track. The LM badge is contrasting in a gold finish and well balanced against the black printing. The case showcases Tanaka’s “Grammar of Design” architecture through crisp edges, flat surfaces, and an almost faceted appearance. It appears to be unpolished overall, though a couple of areas may have been cleaned up a bit at some point. The hands are driven by the 23 jewel 5216 hi-beat. A silky smooth automatic that offers hand winding and quickset of both the day and date. Post service, it’s keeping time to within chronometer standards, and has a healthy reserve. It’s completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and we’ve paired it with a brown grain leather that adds a clean, crisp finish. Don’t wait on this one.

Kvarnsjo Leather Brown Grain Leather with White Stitch (cheapestnatostraps.com)

Serviced 9/16/19

Diameter- 35mm

Lugs- 18mm