eBay Finds: Seiko Sportsmatic SilverWave “30 Proof” Diver, Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Chronograph, and More

When it comes to shopping for vintage watches on eBay, it can be a gold mine, but it can also be a minefield. Our very own Christoph McNeill (you all might know him as Instagram’s @VintageDiver) wrote a must-read, common sense guide to buying vintage watches on eBay (check out Part 1 and Part 2). So if you’re looking for a vintage watch, but are still a little nervous diving head-first into those murky waters, then don’t worry—we’re here to help.  Today, we have another installment of eBay Finds, our series where we highlight some great vintage gems looking for a new home. Happy hunting!

Nivada Grenchen
Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Chronograph

The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver has to be one of, if not the best watch names ever! These were made in many dial/hand variations with many different movements, and the combo here is a really nice one. This example has a buttery smooth Valjoux 23 manual-wind movement — a personal favorite of mine — housed in a 38mm case. The dial and hands are in near perfect condition, and the aluminum bezel insert is excellent as well. The lugs are nice and sharp, and the case back markings look clean, too. This is a great watch, and it’s definitely one you should keep an eye on.

Check it out here

Zodiac
Valjoux 7730 Chronograph

Zodiac is well known for their Sea Wolf divers, but they also made some really great chronographs back in the day. This gorgeous silver-dialed, two-register chrono is powered by a tried-and-true Valjoux 7730 manual-wind movement. The 36mm steel case appears to be in great condition, and the silver dial is clean, too. Some would call this a “poor man’s” Heuer Carrera, but I think that does a disservice to Zodiac — this is a fantastic watch and Zodiac is a brand with a great pedigree that anyone should we proud to wear.

Check it out here

Seiko
Sportsmatic SilverWave “30 Proof” Diver

Prior the iconic Seiko 6105 models, Seiko made a series of beautiful SilverWave divers. These models were the earliest attempts at divers for Seiko, and they remain some of the most coveted watches by Seiko collectors. This example, dating back to December of 1964, comes in a 30m-rated case and it’s in superb condition. It looks to be all original with all the correct parts. The rotating inner dive bezel isn’t faded, and the dial and hands are in top shape. Even the engraving on the case back is in perfect condition. These don’t show up for sale often, and when they do they are usually pretty beat up, so this is a great opportunity to pick up this rare diver. The BIN price is on the high side, but it’s not outrageous. An added bonus is the vintage Tropic strap that comes with the watch!

Check it out here

Bulova
23 Jewels Dress Watch

I absolutely love the look of these Bulova 23 Jewel models. I’ve seen several different case shapes and dial designs on these, but this silver dial with arrow markers is a real beauty. These are on the small side, under 35mm if I recall correctly, and the seller doesn’t say specify size here. Nevertheless, the case appears to be in good original condition, and how can you not love those curved lugs? This one comes with the original signed and correct crown as well. The 23-jewel, automatic movement is a good one, and it even had five adjustments! This watch is a good buy if the styling works for you.

Check it out here