Nivada Grenchen
*Unpolished* 1970s Nivada Aquamar (Ref. 4961) "Banana" Dial
Nivada Grenchen's roots go all the way back to the watchmaking workshop the Nivada family opened in 1879. But the watch brand itself was officially founded in 1926 in Grenchen, Switzerland – and was actually one of the first watch brands to manufacture automatic watches. Nivada is also responsible for a handful of wristwatch innovations, including creating waterproof and “rustless” watches that would stand up to the rigors of the outdoor adventures for which they were created.
Aquamars, like this one, were certainly created for such adventures. This attractive skindiver-style model features blasts of color that make it look like it's just itching to get into the water. Its slim, 39mm case makes it supremely comfortable on the wrist, and the color and design of the dial makes it highly legible and, frankly, a whole lot of fun.
SPECS
| Stock # | NVDAAQU4961BAN | |
| Brand | Nivada | |
| Style | Aquamar | |
| Model | 4961 | |
| Serial | 47XXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Chrome Plated Brass W/ Stainless Steel Back | |
| Dial | Yellow / Grey / Black | |
| Millimeters | 39.5 | |
| Bracelet | Nivada 'Beads Of Rice' Bracelet |
CASE & BRACELET
The slim 39.5mm cushion case is believed to be unpolished, showing normal signs of wear for a watch its age, and crisp angles and finishing throughout. The "Coke" style rotating bezel is in fantastic condition, showing no signs of wear. It features its original unsigned crown. The case back is extremely crisp with all factory engravings deep and highly legible. The watch comes supplied on a stainless steel 'beads of rice' style bracelet that shows minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7 1/4-inch wrist.
DIAL & HANDS
The original dial features a light grey outer with hour markers that are black with lume coming out of each. But it's the bright yellow center of the dial, reminiscent of a drawing of the sun, that makes it immediately noticeable. That yellow extends to surround the date window at 3 o'clock. The lume is still in great condition, aging ever so slightly to a light cream color. The original baton hands are also in great condition with inlaid lume that matches the dial perfectly. Under UV light inspection the lume on the dial and in the hands exhibits no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.