Orvis - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XII Hong Kong Saturday, June 5, 2021 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Orvis
    Year: Circa 1972
    Reference No: 2446SF
    Case No: 197’961
    Model Name: Orvis Solunagraph
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 721, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 40mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied with Orvis guarantee dated 7th October 1972, instruction manual and fitted presentation box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Notable for creating some of the most iconic chronographs for the speedy racers of racetracks, Heuer also supplied innovative chronograph for the men at sea, the Solunagraph is one of such. Designed to be a utilitarian tool for sailors, fishermen and hunters during the 1950s, the chronograph provides crucial information of low and high tides via the distinctive blue and white registers. Like the highly sought-after holy grails of Heuer Abercrombie & Fitch Seafarer and Mareographe, the firm was known to create robust timepieces for outdoor brands of the era. Orvis, a American retailer specializing in high-end fly fishing, hunting and sporting goods also commissioned a similar tidal indication chronograph from Heuer under the name Solunagraph.

    During its production span, Heuer made two generations of this charming Solunagraph. The earlier execution is paired with polished match-stick hand, MH (Minute Hour) bezel, as well as a tidal dial with absence of wave lines. The latter execution has white painted hands, MH or Tachymeter bezel, with a tidal dial with wave radiating lines encircling the register.

    Presented in an attractive overall condition, the present example from the first series is accompanied by its original guarantee, instruction manual and fitted presentation box. Part of the greatest charm of vintage timepieces are the stories that it unearths. This particular Solunagraph is one of such, engraved on the steel caseback of the watch, “Bill Coon, Automaster. Co. No.1 Diplomat” still remains vividly. Likely to be a gift to Mr. Bill Coon’s exceptional work as the head of service at the Automaster, Mercedes-Benz dealership in Shelburne, Vermont. A reference that rarely surfaces on the market with unique charisma and enjoyed by its owner, this is an exceptional opportunity for the vintage collector and outdoor sportsmen.

1084

Ref. 2446SF
A very fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with tidal indication, guarantee and presentation box, retailed by Orvis

Circa 1972
40mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$78,000 - 115,000 
€8,300-12,200
$10,000-14,700

Sold for HK$277,200

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XII

Hong Kong Auctions 5-6 June 2021