Zodiac
1960s Zodiac Sea Wolf (Ref. 722-916) W/ Boxes, Tags, & Military Provenance
When it comes to under the radar vintage watch companies, Zodiac should be one of the first brands to come to mind. Zodiac made several sports models in the 50s-60s and were direct competitors to Rolex, Blancpain, and Tudor but are often overlooked as they don't receive the same clout as the aforementioned companies. However, this is to the advantage of the collectors that enjoy the subtle, or not so subtle nuances that the Zodiac timepieces carry. The Sea Wolf was introduced first in 1953 (the same year as the Rolex Submariner) and was one of the first diving sports watches marketed for the general public and it performed really well for the brand.
Not only was the Sea Wolf offered to the general public, but it was also a popular choice within military exchanges during the late 60s and 70s. Although they were never "issued" perse the Zodiac Sea Wolf was a popular choice amongst military salvage divers and underwater demolition teams as they were seen as a reliable and also an affordable option for soldiers during this era.
This particular Zodiac Sea-Wolf ref. 722-916 was originally purchased from the Marine Corps Exchange at Camp LeJeune, discounted from its retail price of $110 to $56.50 in the late 1960s. The very complete Zodiac Sea Wolf features its original inner and outer boxes, hang tags, MCX hangtag and MCX box sticker, MCX receipt, and Zodiac booklets. The watch itself is in excellent condition considering its time in active duty and it is believed the watch was worn by a Marine Corps welder as we can see evidence of previous use while welding on the 6 o'clock end piece. This Zodiac Sea Wolf ref. 722-916 is a well-worn piece of history from a time when civilians and military personal relied on these instruments not only to tell the time but act as tools to accomplish their jobs and save their lives.
SPECS
| Stock # | ZSW722916 | |
| Brand | Zodiac | |
| Style | Sea Wolf | |
| Model | 722-916 | |
| Serial | 183XXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS | |
| Dial | Glossy Black | |
| Millimeters | 35mm | |
| Bracelet | Zodiac Stretch Rivet Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The case appears to have been very lightly polished in the past and retains extremely thick and symmetrical lugs. The original bezel shows common brassing around the outer edges and retains all of its original factory black enamel, the lume is missing from the 12 o'clock arrow which is common. The case retains its original "Zodiac" signed crown. The case back retains all of its factory engravings, though faint from use. The original Zodiac stretch rivet bracelet features 10 links and shows signs of use, but exhibits only mild stretch. There is evidence the watch was used for welding as there is a weld mark on the 6 o'clock end piece.
DIAL & HANDS
The classic glossy black dial with silver text and applied logo is a treat to behold. The dial itself does show some wear and markings though it helps add to the vintage aesthetic of the watch. The original tritium lume plots are a nice green coloration, which is common for Zodiacs of this era. At some point, the minute-hand scored each lume marker, though under U.V. light inspection there is almost no degradation in the dial lume. The original broad-style hands match the dial perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the hour and sweep-seconds hand retains their original lume without degradation, the minute hand appears to have had the lume repaired/ stabilized with tritium prior to our acquisition.
ACCESSORIES
This watch comes complete with its original inner and outer boxes, hang tags, box tags, MCX tag and MCX receipt, and Zodiac booklets. The watch was recently serviced, back by our 1-year warranty of accurate timekeeping.