It’s been a rough start to 2016. First, Bowie passes. Then, in the same day, we find out none of the W4L staff here won Powerball, AND Alan Rickman dies. Clearly George R.R. Martin is pulling the strings this year. At any rate, Market Watch(ing) marches on, and I think we’ve rounded up a great selection. Sit back, put on Die Hard, and READ UP!
Neil’s Picks
Sinn 140 S
A while back I reviewed the exceptional Sinn 140 St S. It is a fantastic watch but it owes it’s DNA and accolades to this watch, the Sinn 140 S. This watch is he same reference that was worn during the 1985 Spacelab mission and was thought to be the first automatic chronograph in space. The Sinn 140 S featured here is one fantastic looking piece. A PVD watch isn’t anything remarkable now but in the 70’s, it was ahead of its time. Lucky for us, the PVD coating has protected the case which still looks sharp and well taken care of. The dial has almost no defects or corrosion. With lovely patina on the tritium, hands that are still bright orange, all against the black background of the dial, it makes for outstanding and unique contrast that really stands out. Inside the the quintessential 70’s cushion case is the Lemania 5100, which is of course a historic and beloved movement. These watches almost never come up for sale, especially the PVD version, and I don’t expect this one to last too long.
$3,200
Eterna Israeli Defense Force KonTiki Super
Similar to Wittnaur and Enicar, Eterna has made some excellent vintage watches that have remained affordable while having a unique look all their own. KonTikis are just a classic looking dive watch. It’s not in-your-face, however, it’s not boring by any means either. It’s a watch that you know is vintage and won’t get confused with a “neo-vintage” reissue. The original dial and hands are in excellent condition with matching patina all around. There are minimal blemishes on the case which is unusual for these watches which tend to be put through the wringer. At 41mm, the case is large by 1970s standards, but not by today’s. It will look right at home on any wrist. Inside is the tried and true ETA 2824 movement. The mesh bracelet is aftermarket but looks great on this vintage dive watch. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m no expert on Eternas, although I do keep an eye out for these vintage KonTikis from time to time. This is the first IDF watch I’ve come across. The listing provides additional links and information about the IDF KonTikis. It certainly is an interesting watch, even without the military connection.
$3,800
Isaac’s Picks
Rolex GMT Master “FAP” ref 1675
Just a matter of weeks ago, I chose to feature a Rolex 6265 Daytona available from Andrew Shear, with FAP (Fuerza Aerea del Peru, or the Peruvian Air Force) markings on its caseback. I’ve always considered that to be a curious watch, in that at the time, Rolex was indeed producing a watch better suited for aeronautical use: the ref 1675 GMT. When trying to figure out why a chronograph with screw down pushers seems to have been preferred by FAP pilots, I did find out that Rolex offered just about all the pieces in their collections to air force officials, with the opportunity to finance their purchase for a number of years, so maybe the attractive financing option explains the trend of splurging for a Daytona. All this to say, a great FAP 1675 has just come up on the market, and I thought its rarity and superb condition surely made it worth making note of.
Inquire for Price
Wittnauer World Time Chronograph
$2,450
Dean’s Picks
Tudor Monte Carlo ref 7149
Inquire for Price
J. Auricoste Type 20
€2,900
Shane’s Picks
Jaeger-LeCoultre military watch Cal. 479
Here I go again with a military issued watch. It’s almost as if I have an affinity for them, eh? Well, whatever. This time it’s a Jaeger LeCoultre WWW, powered by their caliber 479. The problem with these WWW pieces is finding one in any sort of correct and decent condition. What we have here is an average condition example with correct MOD replacement dial and hands. Now, some might say they’re not original to the watch. Those folks would not only be correct, but also pedantic and annoying. Trying to locate an all original and perfect example of these watches is akin to finding a mint condition WWII Jeep Willys. Sure, they’re out there, but they’ve either been expertly restored and pieced together, or they were somehow not used in service. At any rate, this is an honest example that was obviously put to use by a service member. And the best part is that the replacement parts seem to be scaring folks away, as the seller has lowered the price a handful of times, putting it at $1,500 right now. That’s a freaking steal, people!
$1,500
Wittnauer Venus 188 Chronograph
Two Wittnauer chronos in one Market Watch(ing)! Here we have a more commonly seen style of chronograph from the former Longines sub-brand. What stuck out to me on this one was the case condition; it’s very sharp and clean. The seller gives a fair description, pointing out some of the dial aging around the outer edge, as well as the previous service done to the watch. There’s a best offer option up, so I’d try to push this closer to $800 for what I’d consider a fair deal. In 2016, it blows my mind that we can’t get some better photos, but either way, I’m confident in natural light on a brown shell cordovan strap, this will be a killer piece.
$1,100 or Make an Offer
Fun Pick: Rolex Commando ref 6429
As my extra pick, here’s one you don’t often see: a Rolex Commando ref 6429. What looks like a small Explorer I ref 1016 is actually an uber-rare reference supposedly only made for a year. Now, the watch itself doesn’t do a whole lot for me. In fact, I’d rather have a 1016 or 6610. However, I’m not blind to the rarity and potential interest these uncommon public sales pique amongst the serious Rolex collectors. So, there you have it, a $36,000, 33mm, handwinding Rolex. If you have the cash, do your research, and buy the seller.
$36,000 (negotiable)
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