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 attainable 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 nobility to a fresh series of automatics by way of the new calibre 52 and 56 movements, and Lord Matic was born. Though they never quite 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 this one. Like its KS cousin, it carries the “Special” designation, and rightly so. From March of 1971, this LM Special is a hi-beat masterpiece, and at half the price of it’s KS counterpart. The dial is a flawless matte blue gray with subtle texturing that’s set with polished applied baguettes with white striping. The hour and minute hands are slender polished batons striped to match, and a slim, reaching sweep glides along the minute track. Double badging and crisp white print create a balanced contrast. The case hints atTanaka’s “Grammar of Design” architecture through sharp edges, polished surfaces, and an almost faceted appearance. The hands are driven by the 23 jewel, 5206 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 a few seconds per day, and has a healthy reserve. It’s unpolished and completely original aside from a replacement mineral crystal, and comes attached to the original woven link bracelet and LM clasp. A true King in all but name, this JDM stunner is ready to fill that “Special” spot in your rotation.

Original Seiko Woven Link Bracelet in Stainless Steel

Serviced- 1/25

Diameter- 35mm

Lugs- 18mm