Eterna-Matic KonTiki 10, Automatic Date, circa 1968

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Very Well Preserved Eterna-Matic KonTiki 10 Automatic Date with a Beautiful Brushed Silver Dial and Original Kontiki Signed Gay Freres Bracelet, c.1968 The Eterna KonTiki watch holds a prestigious place in the world of horology, with its origins deeply rooted in the spirit of adventure and exploration. Named after the famous 1947 expedition where Norwegian explorer Thor Heyerdahl and his crew sailed across the Pacific Ocean on a balsa wood raft named Kon-Tiki, this watch symbolizes human endurance and the quest for knowledge. The journey, aimed at proving the possibility of ancient sea routes between South America and Polynesia, inspired Eterna to create a timepiece that would embody this remarkable feat of daring. Introduced in 1958, just over a decade after Heyerdahl's historic voyage, the Eterna KonTiki rapidly gained recognition for its robustness, reliability, and precision—qualities indispensable to adventurers who brave the unknown. Its design was ahead of its time, featuring water resistance, luminous hands and markers for readability under any conditions, and an automatic movement that promised accuracy even in challenging environments. Over the years, Eterna has released various models of the KonTiki watch, each iteration enhancing its technological prowess while staying true to its original ethos. From professional divers to enthusiasts of fine craftsmanship, the Eterna KonTiki appeals to a broad audience. Its legacy not only commemorates an epic adventure but also continues to inspire those who believe in pushing boundaries and exploring beyond the horizon. What's on Offer We love a Kontiki here at VWS, and this Kontiki 10 is a great find. The KonTiki 10 released in 1968 commemorates the 10th Anniversary of the introduction of the KonTiki range in 1958. This is a very well-preserved watch in fantastic condition with minimal signs of previous wear. The brushed silver dial is beautiful and boasts polished metal furniture including baton hour indexes with onyx inserts and luminous pips, and the stick hands also have onyx and lumnious inserts. There is a subtle date aperture at 3 o'clock which is nicely framed to correspond wth the rest of the furniture. The dial is completed by the Eterma-Matic dots and KonTiki 10. It is presented underneath a shatterproof Plexiglas crystal and encased in a stainless case which is in superb condition, very sharp with almost no signs of wear. The watch is paired with its original bracelet which is also in excellent shape. At just under 36mm, it is a great-looking watch on the wrist and perfectly suitable for everyday wear as well as more formal occasions. Snap this on up!