July 2020 is in the books, which means it’s time for August’s eBay finds! @vintagediver found some excellent timepieces, all with interesting case designs that speak to different eras of watchmaking. From Gruen to Hamilton, there are some great pieces to consider. Enjoy!
eBay Finds August, 2020: Funky Case Edition
Here is a scarce and unique vintage Bulova chronograph from 1971. The oval-shaped case is classic 70’s and appears unpolished, retaining its original brushed finish. The reverse panda dial is gray with white sub-dials, and the thirty-minute dial on the right has orange accents that really make the dial stand out. There is a date window at 6, which adds the finishing touch to the dial. Signed crown and original signed bracelet complete the watch. This beast is powered by a manual wind Valjoux 7734, a well known and robust movement. While the style of this one may not be for everyone, if it’s your cup of tea, this is a great find.
Art Deco Gruen Curvex
The Gruen Curvex is a mini-marvel of engineering. Gruen designed the Curvex movement so that it would fit into a curved case that would hug the natural curve of the wearer’s wrist. This example is in amazing condition, with an incredible Art Deco dial that the seller says is original. Re-dials are quite common for watches of this era, and I do believe this dial to be original. The Deco case has stepped sides and brilliant lugs, and the watch has a correct Gruen signed crown. These Curvex’s are truly hard to find in this condition – if you’ve been pining for one, here is your chance.
Wittnauer Diver
If funky flash is your jam, check out this sweet vintage Wittnauer diver. Unpolished steel cushion case with fantastic red acrylic bezel, set off by the silver dial with gold-tone (yep, gold-tone baby!) markers and hands. Vertical day/date window at 6 with matching red day wheel adds even more flair. This beauty (or beast as the eye of the beholder goes…) also has the original signed crown and signed bracelet. Boom.
NOS Hamilton “Big Eye” Men’s Diver Chronograph Watch
You want rare? Ok, here ya go! Vintage NOS Hamilton chronograph diver, complete with original bracelet, papers, and both boxes. Wow. This gem is absolutely mint and looks unused, still has the sticker on the case-back. This is a great piece, with a chunky steel cushion case with brushed finish, mint black aluminum diver’s bezel, signed crown and gray dial with large white sub-dials. Powered by the venerable manual wind Valjoux 7733 caliber that the seller states is working as it should. This is a rare opportunity, don’t miss it…