Nivada Grenchen

1970s Nivada Aquamar (Ref. 4517) Matte Blue Dial

$ 1,150

Nivada Grenchen's roots go all the way back to the watchmaking workshop the Nivada family opened in 1879. But the watch brand itself was officially founded in 1926 in Grenchen, Switzerland – and was actually one of the first watch brands to manufacture automatic watches. Nivada is also responsible for a handful of wristwatch innovations, including creating waterproof and “rustless” watches that would stand up to the rigors of the outdoor adventures for which they were created.

Aquamars, like this one, were certainly created for such adventures. This attractive skindiver-style model features blasts of color that make it look like it's just itching to get into the water. Its slim, 36mm case makes the watch supremely comfortable on the wrist, and the color and design of the dial makes it highly legible and, frankly, a whole lot of fun.  

SPECS

Stock # NVDAAQU4517
Brand Nivada
Style Aquamar
Model 4517
Serial N/A
Size Men's
Material Chrome Plated Brass W/ Stainless Steel Back
Dial Matte Blue W/ Orange Accents
Millimeters 36.5
Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The slim 36.5mm cushion case is believed to be unpolished, showing normal signs of wear for a watch its age, and crisp angles and finishing throughout. The rotating bezel is in very good condition, showing minor signs of wear on the outer edges, as would be expected of a dive watch. It features its original Nivada-signed crown. The case back shows wear but all factory engravings are deep and highly legible. The watch comes supplied on a two-piece leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte blue dial is in fantastic condition with little to no visible marks or discoloration. The hour markers are a mix of reflective orange paint and lume, the latter of which has aged to a cream color. The white handset is in fantastic condition with the inlaid lume that matches the dial, and a neon orange second hand that pops especially well off the dial.  

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.