Early 1950’s Nivada Grenchen Croton Aquamatic. This was their toughest, most robust model that later was the basis for the Antarctic model, worn by Admiral Byrd during the famous 1955 Antarctica expedition.
All of this in a 31mm case size!
Hi Greg, bought the piece off an eBay auction and the seller listed early 1950’s, but watch came from a watchmaker’s estate sale. The caseback is held by four small screws, one under each lug. You think it may be from the ‘40s?
BTW, I enjoy your postings, thanks for chiming in!
Hi Greg, bought the piece off an eBay auction and the seller listed early 1950’s, but watch came from a watchmaker’s estate sale. The caseback is held by four small screws, one under each lug. You think it may be from the ‘40s?
BTW, I enjoy your postings, thanks for chiming in!
The four screws holding the caseback and the script logo tell me that this is a very early Aquamatic, probably the first few months of production. I would guess very early 1950's. Croton is a mystery. No one seems to know what all of the numbers on cases mean or when exactly any watch was introduced. That should have an ETA 1256 in it which would date it to 1950 at the earliest. If it has the numbers 360 on the caseback that indicates that the rotor is not a bumper.
The four screws holding the caseback and the script logo tell me that this is a very early Aquamatic, probably the first few months of production. I would guess very early 1950's. Croton is a mystery. No one seems to know what all of the numbers on cases mean or when exactly any watch was introduced. That should have an ETA 1256 in it which would date it to 1950 at the earliest. If it has the numbers 360 on the caseback that indicates that the rotor is not a bumper.
Love the watch. Thanks for the unearned praise.
I truly appreciate the interesting information you’ve provided - I’m enjoying getting to know the brand, with its unique history and bargains still to be had!🙏
Novice watch lover with an affinity for micro-brands, mid level, sport, tool, and smaller divers — appreciate bronze, Ti, and stainless pieces with reliable hi-beat movements! Domiciled out of North C...
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A stunner! Wow it’s in great shape.
Thanks Rich! It had a round of Polywatch yesterday 😁
Those lugs are something else. 😁
Looks great for a 70 year old watch!
Love the lugs
Love the story and history behind this vintage beauty Willard 👌💯💯
Croton did not use the script logo much after 1950. Yours may be a transitional piece. Is the back held by four screws?
Beautiful watch and very appropriate band.
Hi Greg, bought the piece off an eBay auction and the seller listed early 1950’s, but watch came from a watchmaker’s estate sale. The caseback is held by four small screws, one under each lug. You think it may be from the ‘40s?
BTW, I enjoy your postings, thanks for chiming in!
Hi Greg, bought the piece off an eBay auction and the seller listed early 1950’s, but watch came from a watchmaker’s estate sale. The caseback is held by four small screws, one under each lug. You think it may be from the ‘40s?
BTW, I enjoy your postings, thanks for chiming in!
The four screws holding the caseback and the script logo tell me that this is a very early Aquamatic, probably the first few months of production. I would guess very early 1950's. Croton is a mystery. No one seems to know what all of the numbers on cases mean or when exactly any watch was introduced. That should have an ETA 1256 in it which would date it to 1950 at the earliest. If it has the numbers 360 on the caseback that indicates that the rotor is not a bumper.
Love the watch. Thanks for the unearned praise.
Stunning looking piece Willard! Nice one!
Wonderful piece, Willard
The four screws holding the caseback and the script logo tell me that this is a very early Aquamatic, probably the first few months of production. I would guess very early 1950's. Croton is a mystery. No one seems to know what all of the numbers on cases mean or when exactly any watch was introduced. That should have an ETA 1256 in it which would date it to 1950 at the earliest. If it has the numbers 360 on the caseback that indicates that the rotor is not a bumper.
Love the watch. Thanks for the unearned praise.
I truly appreciate the interesting information you’ve provided - I’m enjoying getting to know the brand, with its unique history and bargains still to be had!🙏
Those lugs are something else. 😁
Looks great for a 70 year old watch!
Thanks Gosh!
Agreed - this old beauty has a hot set of lugs!!😁
Love the lugs
Those horned lugs🤩
Thanks Justin👊🏼
Love the story and history behind this vintage beauty Willard 👌💯💯
Hey Tony! Glad to share the 411 on this interesting, historic brand!
Hope you’re having a fantastic Friday my friend!😎
Stunning looking piece Willard! Nice one!
Thanks Miguel, I appreciate it!🙌🏼
That's one awesomely good looking watch, Willard. And thanks for the background info. 🤓
Thanks John, glad you enjoyed it my friend!🙏👊🏼
It's not just the lugs--that bracelet is terrific with the watch. I mean, the whole thing is a 100% score. Gorgeous indices and numerals, dial... 👍
Thanks Ron, I agree, the bracelet is a big part of the wearing and presentation of this piece 🎯🙏
I love that bracelet!
I love that bracelet!
Thanks Ryan! It is vintage comfy!
I also highly approve of what I think is an expansion bracelet.