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Steel Chronographs

February 27, 2018

vintage steel chronograph watche

$3,150 $1,900 $2,500 $2,500 $3,150 Whether you are brand new to watch collecting or a seasoned veteran, you will notice that the market for vintage steel chronographs is through the roof. The latest trends in brands like Heuer and Universal Geneve have expanded the market and made these once affordable gems a pricey target. Most steel chronographs started out as tool watches, with great functions and sturdy movements. Given the price ascension of chronographs of brands like Heuer, Universal Geneve and Longines, room has been created for the peripheral brands to gain acclaim.

If you are looking to collect affordable chronographs, these watches are ones that will catch a collectors eye for their recognizable characteristics. We are listing several watches that are not yet cult classics but have all the guts to be truly collectable timepieces. Additionally, these watches are in mint condition and in today’s market, condition is paramount.

The grouping of watches we are offering in this special sale all have the key components of a classic vintage chronograph. They all have the two or three register look similar to Daytonas and Autavias. Additionally, the dials and cases are in pristine condition.

First, we have a Nivada Chronoking from the 1970's. The silver registers shimmer in the light and help contrast the watches’ silky faded black dial. The indexes are all strong and intact and the mint condition of the bi-directional rotating bezel makes the watch look like it came right out of the factory. The Chronoking features a Valjoux 7736 movement; the same movement that is in the Heuer Autavia reference 73663. The 38mm screw-down case has a classic style similar to that of a Rolex Daytona.

Next, we have a Ollech & Wajs Astrochron from the 1970's. During production, these watches were incredibly popular with US soldiers, as they were the best quality watches in their price range at the time. This Astrochron we are offering has a beautiful black dial with two sub registers and two outer tachometer scales. The indexes are unique in their rectangular shape and their luminescence still intact and glowing appropriately strong under black light inspection. This watch has a classic vintage chronograph look.

We are also offering another Ollech & Wajs chronograph with a slightly different style case. The dial is full of excitement with 3 sub-registers and three tachometer scales. The case and dial are in incredible condition, the type of condition vintage collecting demands today.

Another great chronograph we are offering is a Le Jour Chronograph from the 1960's. With a similar look to an Autavia, this watch has two sub registers. The unusual dot luminescent markers are still plump and intact. The broad arrow hour hand is reminiscent of early Omega Speedmasters, and the red chronograph hand pops. The dial has an outer tachometer scale and the watch has an warm glow.

Finally, we have a Wittnauer Chronograph from the 1960's. This watch has a 17-jewel, caliber 14y movement. The burgundy bezel of the watch gives it a standout and exceptional look. The dial is still minty with nicely aged luminescent indexes. The sleek two sub registers give the watch a true chronograph feel. The case is incredibly strong with a beautiful bevel in the lugs.