The LM DELUXE 5626 is another mid-range model that crossed the boundary into the technical specs of higher end models. In this case we have a LM that has a movement that is used in the KS models. I believe that the blurring of specs between sub-brands may be related to the end reign of the mechanical watches and the markets infactuation with new quartz technology. The late date of this models seems to indicate this.
The case is a very modern sculpted design with a brushed body, polished bezel ring and drilled through lugs. The hardened crystal is flat and gives clear view of the dial features.
The dial is a work of art. The dial finish i believe is called “Starlight”. It reminds me of pictures of the moons surface. The roman numeral hour markers are high quality polshed and applied details. The surface of the numerals are mirror finished and pick up light well and are very readible. The dial is large for its time at 30mm. The mordern case, Starlight dial and Roman numerals must have been a reference to the Apollo space program which was a big deal during that era. You see this same space age style in the LM SPECIAL 5206-6070 NSP with the meteorite dial.
As referred to earlier, the SUWA 5626 movement is the standard KS movement, with the 5646 version being used in the GS models. The difference between the movements is probably the mainspring, escapment and regulator used in the 5646 to give it chronometer performance. SUWA may have also solved the broken date gear issue that is common to the 5606 in the 5626 movement. None of the 5626 models I’ve owned has had the date issue.
I think that this watch was SUWA’s answer to the DAINI 5206 LM SPECIAL and a final technical statement on mechanical watches for the 1970′s. This watch is essentially a KS with a LM logo.
For me this is another must have SEIKO collectors watch.
This watch is the ultimate SEIKO electro-mechanical watch. I have posted articles on the ELNIX 0703 and the EL-330 on this site. This is the first ELNIX “SG” that Ive owned. The watch has one of the most extravagant crystals used on SEIKO watches. The iridescent green dial, gold hands and hour markers are also over the top. It is even more outragous that the KS VANAC that I posted on this blog. It is a major conversation piece.
The “SG” designation has to be related to the higher accuracy 0723 movement. The designation is only associated with this movement. I believe that the 0723 has higher grade electronics than the 0703. The designation also seems to be used to designate high style and quality.
This watch is in unusually good condition and has the original bracelet. It’s a rare find in the condition.
