Seiko-Lord-Marvel-5740-8020

1968 Seiko Lord Marvel 5740-8020

You may have noticed, but Seiko/GS and hi-beat movements are kind of a thing. The pairing goes together like whisky and chocolate. I say that because the combination is both frequently enjoyed and quite subjectively enjoyed. Many collectors prefer Spring Drive or the uncomplicated SKX/Five flavour. Marmite is the word. But if you do happen to lust over a hi-beat Seiko, today I can bring you one that represents an exceptional value.

Seiko-Lord-Marvel-5740-8020

Remember that famous story of Seiko HQ splitting Grand Seiko from King Seiko and pitting them against eachother? This Lord Marvel is neither of those. When I first started learning about Seiko, I’d incorrectly assumed that Lord was a separate Seiko sub-brand. I’m a bit of an idiot if you haven’t already noticed. That is not the case. Lord Marvel was a model line under Seiko created in 1959 to showcase understated, elegant dress pieces. When, in 1967, Seiko pioneered its own hi-beat, they slotted it into a 35mm Lord Marvel case to create this: the 5740. The dial is as uncomplicated as the concept was. The result is certainly elegant and certainly dressy. Not only that, but it is quite technically impressive for a non King/Grand Seiko of its period. Because the dial does not wear a KS/GS stamp, values remain relatively very affordable even today.

Seiko-Lord-Marvel-5740-8020

This example shows a light even wear across its case and crystal, leading me to believe it has not been replaced. The lugs have a sharp bevel still today, but have possibly seen light polish. Its dial is spectacular with a fully unmarked silvery sheen. It’s also worth noting that although the thin crown looks like a generic replacement, that is the design these came with and is likely original. It does not come with box or papers, though I wouldn’t care.

Find this 5740-8020 Lord Marvel here from Stephen at Long Beach Watch Club for 500 USD.