Eterna Caliber 1020: A WWII-Era Gem for Vintage Enthusiasts
Vintage watch lovers and hobbyist watchmakers cherish the Eterna Caliber 1020 for its robust engineering from the early 1940s, particularly during World War II. Produced around 1941-1944 by the Swiss firm Eterna, this manual-wind movement powered military-inspired wristwatches, blending precision with wartime durability. Its slim profile and reliable performance make it ideal for restoration projects, offering a tactile connection to mid-20th-century horology.
Historical Context
Emerged during WWII, often in military-style watches like the Eterna Birks Challenger, with cases in stainless steel or 14k gold.
Featured in robust, screw-down-back designs for service personnel, emphasizing shock resistance and legibility.
Represents Eterna’s pre-automatic era craftsmanship, before innovations like the ball-bearing rotor in later calibers.
Technical Specifications
Type: Manual wind, lever escapement.
Jewels: 16-19 (variations noted, with some upgraded).
Diameter: 25.6 mm (11.5 lignes).
Height: 3.65 mm, enabling thin case profiles.
Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (vph).
Balance: Compensation or Glucydur screwed balance with Nivarox hairspring.
Hands: 1.38 x 0.80 mm sizing for hour/minute.
Power reserve: Approximately 40-45 hours.
For any Watch Spare Parts inquiry, Email us for rate and availability: [email protected]
Watch Parts Enquiry
* If you are unable to fill out any of the required information fields, please type “N/A”.
Stem, Crown, Hands & Spares might be available for this movement.
Email us for rate and availability: [email protected]
Mobile/WhatsApp: +91- 9841 360 340