Vulcain Chronograph, early 1970

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

We’ve joined forces with our friends at 10:25 Vintage, a New York-based operation with a shared enthusiasm for interesting vintage timepieces, to bring you a robust handpicked collection that is both exceptional and affordable. Perfect for the discerning collector on a budget, these pieces provide an excellent entry point to the joys of vintage watches. Vulcain is best known for the Cricket, and we understand why that’s the case. At a time when adding features to a watch was considered a marvel of engineering, it was the world’s first wristwatch with a mechanical alarm, and it could be seen on the wrist of a number of US Presidents, including Truman, Eisenhower, and Nixon. After bringing the Cricket to market in 1947, Vulcain was officially on the map and launched into huge growth. Like several other brands, including Wakmann and Breitling, Vulcain turned to Charles Gigandet, a Swiss outfit specialized in manufacturing and distributing robust chronographs, to help fill out their product line. You’ll see some noticeable similarities in these brands during this era, with some even bearing more than one of these names on the dial. This particular example dates to the early 1970's and has aged gracefully. Sporting a decidedly modern-sized 39mm case, a gold-toned sunburst dial with contrasting textured subdials, and a robust Valjoux drivetrain this chronograph just oozes cool from every angle. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just getting started, it's hard to go wrong with a vintage chronograph with unique looks and a Valjoux movement.