In the late 1970s, Nivada Grenchen conceived one of its most distinctive and scarce design experiments: the Autochron. It is believed that only around 20 prototype units were ever produced, featuring an iconic dial crafted by the legendary maker Singer. Today, the independent brand revives this rare gem from its archives for modern production with the new Nivada Grenchen Autochron Orange Automatic (Ref. 77004A10), a racing chronograph packed with unmistakable 1970s personality.
While the Swiss brand has structured the current collection to include entry-level options powered by a meca-quartz movement (VK67), the true object of devotion for collectors and purists of mechanical watchmaking is the automatic variant. This model faithfully respects the original architecture and embodies the genuine spirit of that historic prototype.
1970s Character: Orange Gradient Dial and 120-Click Bezel
The visual centerpiece of this timepiece is its matte dial, which transitions from deep black at the center into a vivid orange gradient towards the perimeter. This high-impact layout is complemented by warm beige sub-dials and applied luminous indexes. The 316L stainless steel case features vertical-brushed surfaces with polished bevels, retaining very compact proportions at 38 mm in diameter and a lug-to-lug length of just 44.3 mm, ensuring outstanding wrist comfort.
Framing the dial is a new 37 mm unidirectional aluminum bezel featuring 120 precise positions. Despite its vintage aesthetic, the watch offers robust modern specs, including 20 ATM (200 meters) of water resistance and a double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
Mechanical Substance: ETA Valjoux 7750 Automatic Calibre
At the heart of the timepiece beats a pillar of mechanical watchmaking: the ETA Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph with date. Operating at a high frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), this reliable caliber provides a 48-hour power reserve. Housing an automatic 7750 inside a compact 38 mm case is a notable technical feat, keeping case thickness at 12.7 mm without crystal (15.2 mm overall including the domed sapphire profile).
The timepiece is available with three 20 mm strap configurations: a black perforated ‘Racing’ leather strap, an orange ‘Tropic’ rubber strap, or a stainless steel bracelet.
Technical Specifications: Nivada Grenchen Autochron Orange Automatic (77004A10)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | Nivada Grenchen Autochron Orange Automatic |
| Reference | 77004A10 |
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel (vertical brushed & polished details) |
| Dimensions | 38.0 mm (diameter) × 15.2 mm (total thickness) / 44.3 mm (lug-to-lug) |
| Dial | Matte black with gradient orange and applied luminous indexes |
| Bezel | 37 mm 120-click unidirectional aluminum bezel |
| Crystal | Double-domed Sapphire with AR coating |
| Movement | Automatic ETA Valjoux 7750 (Mechanical chronograph with date) |
| Frequency / Power Reserve | 28,800 vph (4 Hz) / 48 hours power reserve |
| Water Resistance | 20 ATM / 200 meters (signed screw-in crown) |
| Strap Width / Options | 20 mm (Black Racing Leather, Orange Tropic Rubber, or Steel Bracelet) |
| Retail Price | From €2,395 (excl. VAT/taxes) / Steel Bracelet: €2,595 |
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