Why We Love It

In the 1960s and 70s sporty chronographs were all the rage. The popularity of motorsports and sailing regattas meant that watch manufactures were churning out sporty chronographs, many of which followed the templates set by the Omega Speedmaster or Heuer Carrera, with large, sturdy steel cases and streamlined dials.

As the decade wore on, many other brands capitalized on the success of these watches by releasing versions of their own, capturing the spirit of 1960s design with a unique flair.

Though an old brand with a long-established lineage in aviation, it was during this period that Wittnauer truly flourished.

What we're offering here is a Reference 8024-242T - a unique take on the classic matte black dialed 242T. With its "panda" color scheme combined with pops of red accents throughout, this is a VERY special and equally rare watch. It features a sturdy, yet comfortable 38mm case with barrel pushers, the venerable Valjoux-72 hand-cranking movement, a fantastic cigarette handset, and even a caseback engraving that reads: "Keith F. Scott - In Honor Of Distinguished Service." This watch is a real knockout.

We have no idea who Keith F. Scott might have been, but he must have been quite the person to deserve it.

Frankly, we’re kind of jealous.

The Story

From the brand's inception in the 1880s, Wittnauer gained a reputation for their excellent complicated watches. Aviators like Amelia Earhart piloted their planes with instruments made by Wittnauer. Daredevil aviator Jimmy Mattern wore a Wittnauer AllProof in his attempted flight around the world in 1933. 

Longines formally bought Wittnauer in the 1950s, and the brand continued to produce exceptional chronographs at a more competitive price point than their Swiss contemporaries. But like so many watch brands, Wittnauer folded in the face of budget crises in the mid-1980s, causing Longines to dissolve their relationship with Wittnauer. Despite this, their watches remain, and stand as a testament to their ingenuity and elegance.

We've been touting Wittnauer chronographs for years, and for good reason. Their Professional line, in particular, has become increasingly desirable as more and more collectors realize their inherent value.

They combine sturdy steel cases with distinctive dials and a history that's just as reputable as other horological heavy-hitters like Breitling, Omega, and Universal Genéve.