Croton
Tropical 1960s Croton Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver (Ref. 105) "Venus Cal. 210"
The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver from Nivada Grenchen and Croton were produced when adventures and exploration were at the forefront of what was happening worldwide and within the pop culture of the 1960s.
Within the vintage watch community, tool watches hold a significant place in the hearts of many collectors. The 1960s and 1970s are what we know now as the golden era of tool/sports watches, where the form of a watch was designed specifically for an intended application or purpose. This design mentality naturally attracted adventure seekers and professionals alike.
Nivada Grenchen or “Croton” in the States was founded in Grenchen, Switzerland in the 1920s by Jacob Schneider, Nivada Grenchen was actually one of the first watch brands to manufacture automatic watches. Nevada also adopted other modern wristwatch innovations, creating waterproof and “rustless” watches that would stand up to the rigors of the outdoor adventures they were made for.
SPECS
| Stock # | CTNCASD105-2 | |
| Brand | Croton Nivada Grenchen | |
| Style | Aviator Sea Diver | |
| Model | 105 | |
| Serial | ||
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless steel | |
| Dial | Tropical Brown | |
| Millimeters | 38 | |
| Bracelet | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The handsome case with multi-angled lugs retains crisp edges and shows honest signs of light use throughout. The original bezel has achieved a deep navy blue coloration and shows honest aging and wear, but is in excellent condition throughout. The case retains its original unsigned crown that is specific to Venus 210 models. The case back exhibits significant corrosion which has been cleaned away, however, the watch is not waterproof. The case back features an engraving that reads "Earl Dean, X-mas 60', O.W. Tel. Co, Mid Col Employees". The watch will come supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The beautiful and early tropical brown dial is exceptionally well-preserved, only showing truly gentle elements of age that are only nominal in nature. The radium lume plots have achieved a stunning golden brown color and all remain intact, showing only mild degradation in a few markers. The original radium lume hands have aged to a slightly more saturated brown color than the dial and coordinate beautifully with the rest of the watch's aesthetic, under U.V. light inspection the hands display no degradation.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.