The original Centenaire was launched in 1956 to celebrate Eterna’s 100th birthday, and this is what we have here.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number on the movement we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1956, which as far as we know is the only year this model of Centenaire was made. We have found the article about the launch of this watch at Basel in 1956 in the Horological Journal, issue 1,172,
CONDITION
We have other Centenaire models, but this is the first we have found that is a ‘true’ centenary watch. The typeface on the later watches is different, and are sometimes followed by ’61 or 71 depending on the year that version was launched. The movement is Eterna’s 1429U, a 21 jewel auto that was very sophisticated for the time. Using clever design and high end materials like beryllium alloy this was the thinnest automatic movement with centre seconds on the market. Even in the water proof case, this watch is under 10mm thick which makes it a very comfortable wearer. This really was Eterna showing off their capabilities to celebrate their birthday. The dial has some patina but the text is all easily readable. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred, but we have kept the buckle that is signed with the five ball bearing logo of Eterna. One nice touch is the lugs are drilled only on one side, making strap changing easier.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 36.8 mm
Width without crown 34.2 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 41.8 mm
Case Thickness 9.5 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
