Nivada Antarctic Chronometer: Geophysic Cousin
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Nivada Antarctic Chronometer: Geophysic Cousin

By sfoskett · Feb 28, 2014 · 22 replies
sfoskett
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sfoskett introduces a captivating vintage acquisition, a Nivada Antarctic Chronometer, drawing parallels to the esteemed Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic and Rolex Explorer. This post delves into the historical context of watches designed for Antarctic expeditions during the International Geophysical Year, highlighting the unique aesthetic and movement of this lesser-known but historically significant piece.

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I've got a lovely new piece on the way over from the Auctionata auction today and thought I would share it with my Jaeger-LeCoultre friends.




This is a Nivada (Grenchen) Antarctic Chronometer from about 1960. Like the famed Jaeger-LeCoultre Geophysic and Rolex Explorer, this was commemorative of the watches built for Antarctic expeditions during International Geophysical Year, 1957/1958. Nivada is certainly not as well-known (selling as Croton over here in the USA) but their watches are find.

I particularly liked the "snowflake" dial on this particular Antarctic Chronometer. Very lovely, with contrast to the "icicle" markers. The dial reminds me of the Grand Seiko Snowflake, and I see a hint of Jaeger-LeCoultre in the case.



On the back is another treat: A gold medallion depicting an Antarctic research station!

Inside is a chronometer-rated ETA 2472.

Here's a bit more on the Rolex and Jaeger-LeCoultre Antarctic watches:
jlc.watchprosite.com

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The Discussion
AM
amanico
Feb 28, 2014
That is a superb catch, sfoskett. Bravo, I must say that I envy you! [nt]

SF
sfoskett
Feb 28, 2014
Two more fish in the net

I just nabbed two more, but perhaps I'll wait a bit before sharing the details. But here's a hint on the other "big fish"! What watch is this? It's one of the most famous Swiss brands The movement achieved a Chronometer Index of 4.4 in 1970, making it the most accurate mechanical movement ever certified! It achieved a variance of between +15 and +60 seconds per 30 days, far exceeding the test parameters. The watch itself was made less than 15 years ago, in a series of less than 250 It's one of t

AM
amanico
Feb 28, 2014
The Vacheron Chronometre Royal housing the JLC Cal 906? [nt]

SF
sfoskett
Feb 28, 2014
Good guess

But no, that's FAR too common! :-D

AM
amanico
Feb 28, 2014
In this shape of case, not too common, though.

Now, I am very curious! Best, Nicolas

SF
sfoskett
Feb 28, 2014
I am being unfair

I had never even heard of this watch or movement until I saw the auction listing. And it took some serious research to find anything about it. But once I found it I knew I had to have it, purely on historic/technical grounds! Yes, I was being funny about the VC/906 being common. It's actually more rare (and more valuable) than my other fish! That's a pair of more-prestigious names than mine. Here's another hint: It's related to the Chronomatic...

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