A fantastic vintage Swiss mechanical alarm watch with a larger, more modern 1970s presence.
This Cordura features a distinctive tonneau-shaped stainless-steel case, a dark dial, date display, expandable bracelet and, most importantly, twin crowns controlling the time and mechanical alarm.
Inside is the Swiss Ronda Cal. 1243-21, a 17-jewel manual-winding mechanical alarm movement. The 1243-21 is an especially interesting calibre, with a separate power source for the alarm mechanism. One crown winds and sets the time, while the second winds and sets the alarm. When triggered, the stored energy drives the mechanical alarm mechanism, producing its characteristic audible ring.
The movement beats at 21,600 A/h and features Incabloc shock protection.
The combination of the Ronda 1243-21 movement, twin crowns, date, alarm function and larger tonneau case makes this a particularly fun and unusual vintage Swiss watch. It has considerably more wrist presence than the typical mid-century alarm watch while retaining all the charm of a genuine mechanical complication.
A great example of the era when Swiss watchmakers were experimenting with making mechanical complications more accessible—and wearable.
A fantastic vintage Swiss mechanical alarm watch with a larger, more modern 1970s presence.
This Cordura features a distinctive tonneau-shaped stainless-steel case, a dark dial, date display, expandable bracelet and, most importantly, twin crowns controlling the time and mechanical alarm.
Inside is the Swiss Ronda Cal. 1243-21, a 17-jewel manual-winding mechanical alarm movement. The 1243-21 is an especially interesting calibre, with a separate power source for the alarm mechanism. One crown winds and sets the time, while the second winds and sets the alarm. When triggered, the stored energy drives the mechanical alarm mechanism, producing its characteristic audible ring.
The movement beats at 21,600 A/h and features Incabloc shock protection.
The combination of the Ronda 1243-21 movement, twin crowns, date, alarm function and larger tonneau case makes this a particularly fun and unusual vintage Swiss watch. It has considerably more wrist presence than the typical mid-century alarm watch while retaining all the charm of a genuine mechanical complication.
A great example of the era when Swiss watchmakers were experimenting with making mechanical complications more accessible—and wearable.