MARKET WATCH(ING): MEMOVOXES, HOLY GRAILS, AND MUCH MORE

This week on Market Watch(ing), we’re featuring a host of great and rare timepieces. We’re covering all sorts of brands today: JLC, Aquadive, Panerai, VC, and even Mathey-Tissot (who?). Let’s get to it!

Neil’s Picks

Aquadive Model 50

The Model 50 from Aquadive was a milestone in the dive watch world. In 1968, Aquadive filed the patent for what was essentially a depth gauge built into a wrist watch. A pressure gauge on the case is connected to a measuring hand on the dial. Another unique feature of the Model 50 is that it is electronic, but not in traditional sense like quartz. The battery powers the movement and energizes a balance wheel, similar to what a mainspring does in a mechanical watch. This model looks to be from 1975, when Aquadive worked out the kinks with the unique complication and perfected their innovation. What’s more, it looks fantastic for a 40-year old piece. You also get a solid Omega mesh bracelet, a very fitting IsoFrane strap, along with the original vinyl strap. The rarity, look, and sheer cool factor of this watch make it one not to pass up and it’s all a very reasonable price.

$1,600

Panerai Luminor PAM74

It’s no secret that I’m a Panerai fan. Once I finish wading through the plethora of references they have, there are many that I really like. The problem is I can barely pull off a 44mm watch and certainly can’t pull off a 47mm. The Panerai PAM 74 is a watch I like for many reasons but one important one is that it’s 40mm, something quite rare from Officine Panerai. It still retains the classic Luminor case as well as a balanced three register chronograph dial showcasing the Caliber OP IV movement, which is based on a modified Zenith El Primero. This is the same El Primero movement previously used in the Rolex Daytona, and seemingly 80% of Zenith’s lineup. A titanium case also helps the PAM 74 wear quite well on the wrist. These are getting extremely hard to find, especially in this condition. This one comes with all boxes and papers, tools, and two Panerai straps.

$7,480