This week, we’re starting off with a personal favourite of mine in the realm of vintage sports chronographs — the 242T from Wittnauer. It could be said that the 242T owes some of its popularity to NASA, who notably tested the watch alongside the Omega Speedmaster and an unnamed Rolex chronograph in preparation for the moon mission, but at the end of the day, it’s the uniqueness of the 242T’s dial design that makes it so desirable.
Wittnauer 242T Chronograph
What we have here is a remarkably clean example of the 242T, and a rare one at that, as this piece features the seldom seen “solo dial.” This dial is best characterized by the lack of a second line of text below “Wittnauer” which would normally read “Geneve.”
Heuer Camaro
Heuer’s lineup will forever be defined by their chronographs, like the Carrera, which is widely regarded as one of the purest, archetypical chronograph designs. Although Heuer’s Camaro generally isn’t as popular as the rest, every once in a while you’ll see an example that makes you question this notion.
While it does look like the stainless steel case has been polished in the past on this example, the factory sunburst finish which surrounds the dial still remains, and case lines are visible. The main component to focus on with this piece is the dial, which you’ll notice has aged from black to a lovely shade of dark chocolate brown. In the watch collecting community, this is referred to as being “tropical.”
Aristo Heuer Vintage Chronograph
I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, not all great vintage watches have to break the bank. Still don’t believe me? Here’s proof in the form of an early Aristo chronograph, which is believed to have been made by Heuer. Don’t let the mild dial spotting fool you, this is a great looking watch.
Some of my favourite details on this particular piece include the dial’s multiple scales (yes, there is a tachymeter), finished in red, blue, and black, along with the Breguet-style hands which add a touch of refinement to an otherwise sporty looking piece.
