Valjoux 72

Last updated: July 28, 2025

Brand

Valjoux

Caliber Number

Production Period

1938 – 1974

Lignes

13”’

Diameter

29.5 mm

Height

6.7 mm

Power Reserve

Unconfirmed

Frequency

18,000 A/h (2.5 Hz)

Jewels

Escapement

Swiss Lever

Anti-Shock Device

Variable (Incabloc common in later versions)

Hand Count

6 (Hour, Minute, Central Chronograph Second, 3x Sub-dial hands)

Manufacture Region

Unconfirmed

Functions

Chronograph with 12-hour and 30-minute counters, Small Seconds

Valjoux 72 Description

The Valjoux 72 is one of the most famous and highly regarded manual-wind, column-wheel chronograph movements ever made. Produced for nearly four decades, it was the benchmark for quality and used by a vast number of prestigious brands including Patek Philippe, Rolex, Heuer, and Breitling. Its robust construction and classic tri-compax (3-6-9) layout made it the definitive chronograph movement of its era. It served as the base for numerous variations, including the Rolex Daytona calibers.