When it comes to vintage Swiss watches, few are as intriguing and technically fascinating as the Octo SkyNavy. In the 1960s, Octo SA, a famous Swiss watch brand, introduced one of its most iconic innovations—the SkyNavy, a watch-compass hybrid. This timepiece became a symbol of advanced engineering and practicality. For anyone looking to buy a vintage watch, the SkyNavy stands out not only for its technical design but also for its pioneering role in multifunctional timepieces.
The SkyNavy was developed after years of research by Octo’s team, driven by the goal of creating a timepiece that could serve dual purposes—accurate timekeeping and navigation. Before this invention, the challenge had always been the interference caused by magnetic fields, which disrupted mechanical watch movements. Octo's SkyNavy solved this issue by separating the functionality of the compass from the mechanical movements, allowing wearers to use the compass without affecting the watch’s timekeeping abilities.
Beyond its impressive technical design, the SkyNavy was also an attractive timepiece that presented the craftsmanship for which Swiss made watches are known. The watch featured a rotating bezel marked for navigation, providing users with the ability to align the watch with their surroundings to find their bearings. The luminous hands and markers enhanced readability in low-light conditions, a critical feature for military personnel or adventurers in remote areas.
Specific Information
Object nr: SM (WOFS Salesmission)
Brand: Octo
Model: SkyNavy
Year: 1960's
Movement: Manually-wound cal. 4030. Serviced recently.
Material: Steel
Original crown: Yes
Size: 38mm ex crown
Strap/Bracelet: Mesh bracelet (no name)
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No/No
Serviced: Yes, we leave a 6 months of warranty from date of purchase
The Condition
If you search for something spectacular, something unique and something to be proud of - this is it! This is a watch for the real watch connoisseur! And this time, we really mean the REAL connoisseur.
The watch shows signs from wear but it is still as good as We like them - well preserved case, original dial with ageing lume and beautiful hands. The bezel got some mark from use and works well, so does the serviced movement.
The crystal got some small signs of use and the caseback got some thin scratches but nothing remarkable.
If you search for something authentic and uniqe this is the watch for you!
The pictures is a part of the description, study therefore the pictures carefully!