The Watch
v5826
Waterproof AND an automatic. The Aquamatic was quite something in the 1950s. the 360EL on some dials indicates a full 360 degree rotation of the movement rotor, unlike lesser bumper movements of the time, and a major marketing coup.
The early models had a caseback held by 4 screws but the company moved to screwback cases in line with its other more popular model, The Antarctic.
Whilst small by modern standards, the 34-35mm case sizes were completely appropriate for the explorers of the 1950s, where size was less relevant than accuracy and reliability. Compared to a Rolex Explorer, it stands up well as at fraction of the price of one the 1950s collectors grail watches.
There is an Aquamedico version that carries a difference reference (AM4) but is essentially exactly the same model.
There are a huge range of Aquamatic watches but currently most interest is in the early models from the 1950s and 1960s. The model itself has just been revived in 2020 by the Nivada company, along with a modern version of its classic Chronomaster range.
Specific Information
Object nr: 294
Brand: Longines
Model: Conquest Calendar
Ref: 9007-2 (118)
Year: 1954
Movement: Cal. 19 ASD (SERVICED)
Material: Gold on steel
Original crown: Longines signed crown
Dimensions: 35.2, without crown
Strap/Bracelet: New grey suede strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No/No
Serviced: Yes, under warranty until 2023-06-30
The Condition
This is a personal favourite!
This vintage Longines "Conquest" got a beautiful dial with zon structure and beautiful lustre, strong two-toning and applied multi-faceted indexes. The dial shows some signs of ageing as you can see, but what to expect on a original dial from 1950's?
The upper case has a gold capped surface – this is formed from a sheet of gold fused to the metal beneath and is a much more hard wearing and robust finish than standard gold plating. Turning the watch over reveals the weighty stainless steel screw-down back with its central gold medallion. The medallion features the Longines fish logo which is heightened with translucent green enamel.
The crystal is in very good condition without any cracks och dings. The crown is the original "top head"-crown. In some lights it seems a bit pink gold-coloured and in other lights it doesnt.
The movement is in a very good, newly serviced, condition!
Sold "as SERVICED”!
The pictures is a part of the description, study therefore the pictures carefully!
A charming gents Croton Nivada Grenchen Aquamatic wristwatch produced in the 1950’s. The solid steel case measures 33.5mm and is in excellent unpolished condition, distinguishing itself with long, sweeping lugs, a screw down back and recessed crown. The factory original satin silver dial has developed a light creme patina and is near mint, with applies silver markers and radium lume dots. Signed “CROTON, NIVADA GRENCHEN, AQUAMATIC, SWISS”. Silver dauphine hour and minute hands with center sweep seconds.
Original signed ETA 1256 automatic with 17 jewels in excellent condition, running well and keeping time.
Delivered on a modern leather strap with steel buckle.
Case:
- Stainless steel
- 33.5mm (excluding crown) / 18mm between lugs
- Original unsigned recessed crown
- Plexi crystal
- Case number: 61K42924
Movement:
- ETA 1256
- Auto winding
- 17 jewels
- Serial number:
Dial:
- Original satin silver
- Polished silver applied hour markers
- Original silver dauphine hands
- Signed: “CROTON, NIVADA GRENCHEN, AQUAMATIC, SWISS”