
Watch
Key features
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Extremely rare reference
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Paul Newman dial
About this watch
The Chronomaster model wasn’t just a chronograph. It was more like the Super-Chronograph. It in fact had an astonishing number of functions. Such a purpose is accurately reflected in the model’s name: CHRONOMASTER AVIATOR SEA DIVER, which suggests a clientele of professional racing drivers, pilots and divers, as well as the multiple functions evoked in the advertising of the 1960s: THE WORLD’S BUSIEST WATCH – HAS MORE USES THAN EVER COUNTED.
The models fitted with the Valjoux 23 caliber are the third representatives of the Chronomaster dynasty (after the Venus 210 and the Valjoux 92). This development coincided with relatively major changes to the dial and hands. The dials got new typography for the subdials with simplified scales and the numerals the conventional way up. The broad arrow hands changed to the more contrasting white baton hands, while lollipop, followed by elongated triangular hands indicated the chronograph seconds.
The present model is an exceptionally rare Chronomaster version. Two models have been named Paul Newman because their dials look very much like those on some Rolex Daytonas, with their distinctive subdials: the first one has a black dial and white suddials, and the second one a white dial and black subdials.
This example, reference 85017 / 4531, is the first version: the “Black Paul Newman”. It is in good condition, and all its components are period consistent. The Watch Score is 7.9 and an Extra Score of 0.5 is given for its overall aesthetic consistency.
Our WATCHFID Rating is 8.4.
Condition Report
This watch is provided with an exclusive 32-page book: the WATCHFID Condition Report.

Need more information about this model?
Check out our review on the Watch Books Only website.