NIVADA GRENCHEN Chronomaster
“Special Logo”

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 a rare late production with the Valjoux 23, probably in the early 1970s. It is characterized by a new stylized Nivada logo on the dial and crown, hence its nickname “Special Logo”. The counters are grey and the yachting scale is orange with black numbers, which is unusual. There is no indication of the model name. Its caseback has a penguin in the center, which is why collectors also call it “Penguin”.

This example, reference 0 / 4076, is in good condition, and all its components are period consistent.

The Watch Score is 8.6.

An Extra Score of + 1.0 is given for its publication in CHRONOMASTER ONLY.

Our WATCHFID Rating is 9.6.