Croton
1970s Croton 106 Chronomaster (Ref. 903011) "Paul Newman"
Croton began its roots in New York circa 1878 but was formally introduced as Croton Watch Co. in 1928 when the company began assembling watches under their own name.
Nivada Grenchen was founded in1920s Grenchen, Switzerland, and was actually one of the first watch brands to manufacture automatic watches. Nivada encompassed other modern wristwatch innovations as well, creating waterproof and “rustless” watches that would stand up to the rigors of the outdoor adventures they were creating a watch for.
In the 1930s Croton and Nivada Grenchen would form a strong partnership which allowed Nivada’s watches to be imported into the US without restrictions as long as they were sold under the Croton name, allowing Nivada Grenchen to grown they’re market tremendously, and for Croton to use the Nivada platform to continue assembling watches under their name.
This Croton 106 Chronograph ref. 903011 features a beautiful and intricate dial designed by Singer and most notably features the same sub-dial printing as the famous "Paul Newman" Rolex Daytona dial which was also made by Singer. These incredibly rare examples have excellent art-deco styling and they're large case design for the era makes them an easy to wear option by today's standards. Powered by the Landeron cal. 248 chronograph movement, this Croton 106 Chronomaster is a durable choice for daily wear.
SPECS
| Stock # | CTN106903011 | |
| Brand | Croton | |
| Style | 106 Chronomaster | |
| Model | 903011 | |
| Serial | 59XXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | SS | |
| Dial | Matte Black "Paul Newman" | |
| Millimeters | 38mm | |
| Bracelet | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The semi-square tonneau case design is a handsome and interesting design, and appears to remain unpolished featuring sharp lines and retains its factory dimensions and case finishing with light, honest signs of use. The black bezel sits flush with the top of the case and is in excellent condition, remaining deep black in coloration with light signs of use around the outer edges and retains its tritium pearl at the 12 o’clock position which shows some degradation. The case retains its original unsigned crown and pump-pushers. The case back factory engravings have slightly faded through wear but all still remain visible to the naked eye. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The stunning matte black, 2-register chronograph dial features a tachymetre and telemetre timing scale. The dial itself remarkable condition showing so signs of aging or blemishes. The "Paul Newman" style sub-dials remain bright white and feature metallic outer tracks that remain clean. The tritium topped markers have taken on a lovely golden patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. All of the hands remain original to the watch and the tritium hour and minute hands match the dial patina perfectly, showing no degradation under U.V. light inspection.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, previous service history is unknown.
