Sunburst Blue Waltham Chronograph

- Ships free within US & Canada - 

Own a piece of American watchmaking history with this exquisite sunburst blue chronograph diver by Waltham. Its over-sized, pie-shaped tritium markers, and fluorescent orange sweeping chrono hand anchor this stunning dial in a sporty vintage aesthetic. With its chunky tonneau-shaped case, and tapered steel link bracelet, this piece commands an impressive presence on the wrist, and just screams retro flare!

Please carefully read Buying a Vintage Watch and Shipping & Returns before making your purchase.

AN AMERICAN LEGACY

The year is 1854, and America is the driving force of an industrial revolution. The epicentre of American industrial watchmaking emerges out of Waltham, Massachusetts, the birth place of, you guessed it - THE WALTHAM WATCH COMPANY.

Following several innovations that ultimately helped usher global watch production into the industrial age, the Waltham Watch Company boasted a series of firsts, including the first ever watch with interchangeable parts, and the first 100% American-made watch.

At the forefront of their early success, was a production innovation that allowed their machines to manufacture watch parts consistently, and at scale. These machines not only revolutionized American watchmaking, but were also adopted by the fast-growing Swiss watch industry. 

Transitioning through several names and owners over the years (American Waltham Watch Co. and the American Watch Co), the company managed to cut a wide swath of the market, producing over 40 million watches, including dress watches, clocks, and tool watches designed for military and railroad use. 

Before going out of business in the late 1950's, Waltham opened a subsidiary in Switzerland, Waltham International SA, which still retains the rights to the Waltham name outside North America, and continues to produce watches under the Waltham brand name. Through the 60's and 70's, the international operation produced a series of truly interesting wristwatches. These watches, including the example available here in our shop, have become a favorite among discerning vintage sports watch collectors, especially those with an interest in the, once prolific, American watch industry. 

CONDITION & SPECS

This 70's workhorse is in very good condition, and running as it should. The large indices and hands are filled with tritium which have uniformly aged into a textured honey toned yellow. The chronograph engages well, and runs as it should. Aside from a slight blemish on the dial next to the 1 o'clock marker, the blue sunburst dial is bright, textured, and in great condition. This watch is a chameleon under different light, with the dial adapting it's look and color to its surroundings. It really comes alive in the sun or under bright light. The original bi-directional bezel smoothly rotates both ways, but has lost some firmness over time. The bezel and case are showing some honest wear, with a nick on the bottom edge. But the case seems to be unpolished with the edges still sharp and brushed texture still visible on the top side of the case. The sweeping ultra-bright orange chrono hand is a standout feature...when it's engaged, I dare you to pay attention to anything else.   

Brand: Waltham
Model: Chronograph
Production Year: Circa late 60's / early 70's
Complication: Two register chronograph and Date
Case Material: Steel
Case Size: 38.3mm diameter (minus crown) x 43mm (lug to lug), 15mm thick
Dial Colour: Sunburst Blue
Depth Rating: 200m
Lug Width: 19mm
Movement: Valjoux 7734
Service History: Unknown  

 Read Buying a Vintage Watch before making your purchase.