Rodana Waterproof Antimagnetic Watch, circa 1940s

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

The 1940s were an important period in the development of practical, reliable wristwatches. With mechanical watches becoming essential everyday instruments, Swiss manufacturers increasingly concentrated on improving their durability, accuracy and resistance to the demands of daily life. Among the many Swiss watchmaking names associated with this period was Rodana , a brand whose vintage timepieces reflected the functional design and mechanical craftsmanship of the era. Rodana watches from the mid-twentieth century can be found in a variety of styles, from understated dress watches to more purposeful designs featuring waterproof cases, antimagnetic protection and highly legible dials. These features were particularly desirable during the 1930s and 1940s, when watch manufacturers were developing increasingly sophisticated methods of protecting mechanical movements against moisture, dust and magnetic interference. The use of Staybrite stainless steel was another important development. This corrosion-resistant steel alloy was particularly well suited to watch cases, offering greater durability than many of the plated base-metal cases commonly used in earlier wristwatches. The term Staybrite became associated with quality stainless-steel construction and appears on the casebacks of numerous vintage Swiss watches from this period. Today, watches such as this Rodana offer collectors a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the character of early Swiss wristwatch design, with their compact proportions, distinctive dials and beautifully traditional mechanical construction. What's on Offer Here we have a particularly characterful Rodana Waterproof Antimagnetic wristwatch, dating from approximately the 1940s , housed in a stainless-steel Staybrite case and powered by a 15-jewel manual-winding movement. This is a lovely example of a vintage watch that wears its history proudly. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the dial, which has developed a wonderful warm cream colour with extensive natural patina across its surface creating an attractive mottled appearance that gives the watch a distinctive vintage personality. The dial features bold Arabic numerals in an unusual arrangement, with the figures positioned to follow the circular shape of the dial. Their darkened finish contrasts beautifully with the aged background, giving the watch an almost military-inspired appearance without making any claim of military issue. At 12 o'clock sits the Rodana signature , accompanied by the words Waterproof and Antimagnetic , reflecting two important features promoted by Swiss watchmakers during this period. The watch has a traditional subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o'clock , complete with its own finely detailed chapter ring and small seconds hand. The syringe hands offer luminous inserts that have aged naturally over the decades. Their appearance works particularly well with the warm tones of the dial. The stainless-steel Staybrite case measures approximately 30mm across and 36mm lug-to-lug , reflecting the compact proportions typical of wristwatches produced during the 1940s. Its angular lugs and polished surfaces give the watch a purposeful appearance, while the case displays the expected marks of wear associated with its considerable age. The caseback is clearly engraved with the period markings: WATERPROOF – ANTIMAGNETIC – STAYBRITE – FAB. SUISSE – ESTANCO These markings are particularly interesting, reinforcing the watch's Swiss manufacture and the emphasis placed on protective case construction. The watch is fitted with a leather strap featuring contrasting cream stitching, a sympathetic choice that complements its aged dial and understated vintage styling. The movement has been tested on a time grapher and is currently recording good results. We believe the watch is running well, although its previous service history is unknown. Should you prefer to have the watch professionally serviced before delivery, this can be arranged through our watchmaker at an additional cost. Simply add a note when placing the watch in your basket, and we will contact you to discuss the available servicing options. With its distinctive patinated dial, traditional hand-wound movement and attractive stainless-steel case, this Rodana is a lovely piece of 1940s Swiss watchmaking history. Condition Details: Crystal: Excellent Dial: Fair Bezel: Good Case: Good Movement: Not Serviced Overall: Good