1940s Eterna Automatic

Why This Watch Matters

This Eterna Automatic has a beautiful two-tone dial with creamy patina, rolling sportiness and elegance into one neat piece.

The Full Story

Eterna was founded in 1856 and produced beautiful timepieces that have been admired by many vintage collectors over the decades. This example was produced during the most robust period of Eterna’s success, around when it introduced its first automatic winding movement in 1948. The watch is housed in a neat 34.5mm case, but the the wide-set bezel makes the watch appear and feel larger on the wrist. The best part of this watch is the silvered two-tone dial which has aged beautifully and evenly with the gorgeous patina on the lume.

The Fine Print

Maker: Eterna
Model: Automatic
Reference: N/A
Year: Late 1940s
Case No: 3364750
Movement No: 3424233
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 34.5mm diameter; 10.5mm thickness
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Yes, radium
Caliber: Eterna bumper automatic caliber 1076
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Blue Suede Watch Strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

Overall, the watch is in good condition. The case shows some scratches, but the satin and matte finishes in different areas are still preserved. The silvered two-tone dial shows some light age spots that often occur naturally, but has also gained a beautiful light champagne patina which goes very well with the creamy patina on the lume. The hands appear to be original with some darkening on the blued steel portion.