Zodiac
1970s Zodiac Sea Wolf (Ref. 722-946B)
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 looked over 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. Zodiac timepieces often feature bright color combinations that can make any vintage watch collector swoon.
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. The second generation of Sea Wolfs includes some of the most interesting and colorful diving watches from the era, bright oranges, blues, and greens to make both highly visible and highly attractive wristwatches.
SPECS
Stock # | ZSW722946B-4 | |
Brand | Zodiac | |
Style | Sea Wolf | |
Model | 722-946B | |
Serial | 22XXXXX | |
Size | Men's | |
Material | Stainless Steel | |
Dial | Glossy Black | |
Millimeters | 35.5 | |
Bracelet | 2pc Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The wonderful case has seen light polishing in the past and retains strong dimensions with light signs of use. The light blue and black bakelite bezel is excellent, showing a scratch through the 3 'clock dash and minimal signs of use otherwise. The case retains its original Zodiac signed button crown, which operates the quickest date function. The case back retains all of its factory markings. The watch will come supplied on a 2pc leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The glossy black dial shows some mild aging around the lume plots, which is common, and light patina throughout. The tritium lume plots have aged to a dark green patina and show no visible degradation under U.V. light inspection. The tops of the markers show some corrosion throughout. The original tritium hour and minute dauphine window hands have aged to match the dial nicely, the hour and minute hands do exhibit some lume loss and remain stable. The black sweep seconds hand was sourced on the watch and was most likely replaced early in the watch's life.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is functioning and keeping time perfectly, previous service history is unknown.