An Impossibly Beautiful Vetta Cronografo Ermetico Impermeable

Not many designs from 1940 feel at home today. Certainly, few have aged as gracefully as the humble multi-scale chronograph. This is particularly true of this Italian Valjoux-based clamshell. Vetta was the Italian-branded partner of Wyler’s European arm. Small alterations were made to the Wyler designs, such as the flair of colorful details this example sports. History teaches Italians design like no one else. Just use your eyes. If you’re looking to go classic and classy, this Italian beauty deserves consideration.

There’s a real elegance to early clamshell cases. Most were produced in slightly larger sizes that standard in period. That left us with a series early clamshell chronographs that sport modern propotions. At 38mm, this is a perfectly svelt size. Additionally, they’re just unfussy. Clean back, clean sides. Vetta pieces are often collected individually by enthusiasts. Each model is a slight variation on a theme. This Vetta sports a two-tone dial, contrasting scales, blued steel, a signed case back, and drilled lugs. Quite a modern take for the 40s.

The example shown today is in lovely condition. Its case is strong with light wear. I believe the crown and pusher to be correct from what I can tell, but I’m not an expert in these. Importantly, its dial is looking more like a 20-year-old than the 81-year-old it truly is. The mild grey contrast it has adopted over time is just lovely. The movement, a Valjoux 22, is not pictured but said to be running well and serviced in the last six months. It comes from a private seller shipping worldwide.

Find this Cronografo Ermetic Impermeable available here from @pleasegivemecashmere by DM for 8200 GBP.