Seiko Lord Matic Special 5216-8020 from 1976 (Serviced)

For sale is a Seiko 5216-8020.

The Seiko 5216-8020 is one of the most sought after variant of Lord Matic Special that was produced for a very short period of 1 year between 1975 and 1976.

The watch features a sharp looking case that reminds many of the cases used by vintage Grand Seiko with its curved sideline, high polished planes and two dimensional surface.

The word "Special" printed on the dial is no marketing gimmick. Vintage Seiko watches with the word "Special" printed on the dial signifies a higher standard of regulation on the movement of the particular calibre.

Produced by Seiko's Daini factory, the 5200 series calibres are high end automatic watch movement produced as their last attempt in winning the competition against the Suwa factory.

Even though the Daini factory is no longer around, the innovation of 5200 calibres continue to live on in Seiko's 4s calibres as seen in Credors and alpinist series.

The Calibre 5216 sets itself apart from its peers with an upgrade that allows more flexibility on the time where the day and date changes without breaking.

It is worth noting that in 1977, the Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Public Corporation (now NTT) purchased a large amount of 5216-8020 for the purpose of gifting their employees with professional engraving done on the case back.

It is highly likely that the corporation did that in 1977 as a gift of appreciation and to commemorate the occasion of being able to make telephone service available nationwide in Japan.

The watch case is in excellent condition with common hairline scratches seen. The watch dial and hands are free from any signs of aging. Very light hairline scratches can be seen on the crystal. Free crystal replacement can be done by on request. Serviced in April 2022, the watch is keeping good time.

The watch comes on a brand new handmade top grained leather strap.

Serial number has been covered for privacy.

Diameter: 37mm
Thickness: 10mm
Lug Width: 19mm