Founded in 1856 in Grenchen, Switzerland, Eterna has long stood at the forefront of horological innovation. Renowned for precision and craftsmanship, Eterna was the pioneer behind the ball-bearing mounted rotor system introduced in 1948, which became a standard in automatic movements and inspired the creation of ETA, now a cornerstone of Swiss watchmaking. During the 1940s, Eterna established itself as a producer of robust and elegantly designed wristwatches, often favored for their reliability in both military and civilian contexts.
This exceptional 1940s Eterna exemplifies the brand’s timeless aesthetic and mechanical excellence. The lovely 852 hand wound movement is housed in a rare 38mm oversized stainless steel case. This piece stands out for its bold wrist presence—especially notable for the era. The elegantly downturned drop lugs add vintage charm and ergonomic comfort. Its dial, now graced with a warm cream patina, features classic black Arabic numerals, maintaining excellent legibility and evoking pure pre-war design language. Paired with a handmade cream cow-hide strap, the watch exudes understated elegance and authenticity.
A true collector’s touch: it comes complete with its original Eterna box, a rare survivor from the era. Perfectly blending form and function, this Eterna is more than a timepiece—it's a preserved chapter of Swiss watchmaking heritage.