One of the things we love most about Wittnauer is the brand’s sheer design versatility. While some of their contemporaries stuck to rigid design codes, Wittnauer seemed to delight in mixing and matching aesthetic elements to create watches that were truly unique. They weren’t afraid to pair a classic element with a modern one, resulting in timepieces that are often delightfully unexpected and always full of character. This watch is a quintessential example of that creative spirit.
At first glance, this Reference 2732-1-C189 presents as a classic, elegant dress watch from the 1960s. But look closer, and the fantastic details begin to emerge. The design is an exercise in compelling contrasts. It features a bold, almost playful applied Arabic numeral at 12 o’clock, reminiscent of early 20th-century designs, set against sharp, faceted baton indices for the other hours. These indices are themselves elevated with a fine black enamel inlay, a subtle but luxurious touch that adds depth and improves legibility. This blend of old and new, of soft curves and sharp lines, is what gives the watch its distinct and captivating personality.
This handsome design is presented on a beautiful silver dial that has aged to a perfect warm, creamy patina. It’s an even and honest aging that collectors cherish, giving the watch an authentic soul that can only be earned over decades. The original dauphine handset is in excellent condition, providing a classic mid-century counterpoint to the dial’s eclectic layout. The whole composition is housed in a svelte 32mm stainless steel case with a 10k gold-filled bezel, a lovely “two-tone” look that was very much in vogue. The short, curved lugs ensure a comfortable and elegant fit on the wrist, making it a truly superb dress piece.