Waltham Autochron 100 jewels c.1969
Waltham Autochron 100 jewels c.1969
Picture this: It's the mid-1960's. World tensions are rising. Switzerland and Japan are engaged in fierce escalation...of jewels?!? Yes, you are looking at a "Jewel War" co-champion in this Waltham 100 Autochron.
Okay, okay...so that's a bit sensationalized. But there really was an unspoken competition going on in the watch market during the '60s, with watches being released that had 39, 53, 65 jewels, culminating in the 100 jewel watches that Waltham and the Japanese manufacturer Orient released. Most of the jewels in these watches are not particularly functional, but they made for a fun bit of marketing and some smooth winding rotors! With a beautiful dial and quasi-cushion styled case, this is sure to be quite the unique piece and conversation starter!
This is a great running watch, powered by Waltham's R.312 caliber Swiss movement. It comes on a period correct JB Champion mesh bracelet (this may be the stock bracelet!), a new double-stitched leather band, and a pristine acrylic crystal with date window magnifier. As an added bonus, this piece comes with appropriate Waltham 100 inner and outer boxes, including original guarantee booklet. You're not likely to find a more complete set for these 100 jewel rarities...
- Movement: Waltham R.312 100 jewels
- Case Stainless steel
- Powered: Automatic mechanical
- Case Width: 37.7 mm incl. crown
- Case Length: 41.6 mm
- Lug Width: 18 mm
- Crystal: New acrylic, date magnifier
- Band: Vintage JB Champion mesh bracelet + New, double-stitched genuine leather
- Boxes: Waltham 100 inner & outer boxes included
Function - This watch winds with the natural movement of the wrist. It is recommends to wind the crown several times by hand to start the movement; then, strap the watch on your wrist and you're good to go!
[All vintage watches are expected to function as described. However, due to age and generally unknown service history (unless otherwise stated), these watches may not keep time as accurately as new or quartz-style watches. This is completely normal and does not indicate that there is a major problem. Like your automobile, all mechanical watches will likely need to be serviced at some point in time. Please keep this in mind, as there is no guarantee regarding when these vintage watches may need standard maintenance. Every watch sold by Buying On Time is done so with the expectation that it is not currently in need of service or repair, unless noted. Transportation and shipping are, unfortunately, out of our hands -- but Buying On Time guarantees that all watches sold are accurately described and in the stated condition when they leave our hands.]