Don't miss the next drop
In the world of vintage timepieces, there are certain design elements that instantly transport you to a specific era. The “waffle” dial, or Clous de Paris guilloché, is one of them. It’s a texture that screams mid-century, adding a level of depth and visual complexity that flat dials simply cannot match. When you combine that with the bold, stylized numerals of the Art Deco period, you get a watch that is not just a time-telling device, but a piece of deliberate, declarative design. This is precisely where Wittnauer excelled—in creating watches with immense character and flair that stood apart from their more conservative Swiss counterparts.
Wittnauer, an American brand with a rich history, truly hit its stride in the post-war years, offering Swiss watchmaking prowess with a distinctly American sensibility. They understood that a watch was an expression of personal style, and they weren’t afraid to be bold. The Reference 2065 is a perfect embodiment of this philosophy. It’s a watch that confidently blends textures, shapes, and historical design cues into a cohesive and wildly attractive whole.
This particular example is, in our opinion, an absolute showstopper. The centerpiece is, of course, that incredible waffle dial. It’s in fantastic original condition, having aged to a warm, creamy off-white that gives it an authentic, honest character. Upon this textured canvas are the applied, Art Deco-style Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6, and 9, interspersed with sharp, triangular indices. It’s a wildly cool and dynamic layout. The original tritium lume plots have developed a dark, rich patina, a detail we collectors actively seek out as a sign of an untouched and authentic piece.
The 32mm stainless steel case is a study in thoughtful details. While modest by today’s standards, it wears beautifully thanks to its thoughtful geometry. Note the wide, sloped bezel and the deep, deliberate grooves at each hour location—a fantastic and unusual touch that adds another layer of architectural interest. Inside, the watch is powered by a robust, 17-jewel manual-wind Caliber 1080 movement, a reliable workhorse that will keep excellent time for decades to come.
