Eterna Caliber 1243: A Vintage Automatic Gem
Vintage watch enthusiasts and hobbyist watchmakers cherish the Eterna Caliber 1243 for its pioneering role in automatic winding technology from the late 1940s. Produced around 1949-1953 in Switzerland, this 13 ligne movement exemplifies post-war innovation, featuring a bi-directional oscillating weight on ball bearings for smooth self-winding. Its center seconds and date complication made it ideal for men’s dress watches, blending reliability with elegant finishing.
Historical Context
Eterna collaborated with ETA’s Heinrich Stamm to refine the rotor design, surpassing earlier Rolex and Felsa efforts. The 1243 variant, part of the 1237-1254 family, targeted 13-inch cases with adapted rotors. Early models used T-shock protection, quickly upgraded to UC for better durability. Production ended by 1953, replaced by the 1413 series, but survivors remain serviceable today.
Technical Specifications
Diameter: 29mm (13 lignes)
Height: 5.9mm
Jewels: 17
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour (BPH)
Power Reserve: Approximately 42 hours
Lift Angle: 52 degrees
Balance: Screwed Glucydur with flat Nivarox hairspring
Shock Protection: Eterna-U (UC variant)
Winding: Bi-directional automatic rotor (E- or D-shaped, gilt or rhodium)
Functions: Center seconds, date
Finish: Rhodium-plated plates, beveled edges, gilt infill lettering; high polishing (7-9 points on key components)
For any Watch Spare Parts inquiry, Email us for rate and availability: [email protected]
Watch Parts Enquiry
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Stem, Crown, Hands & Spares might be available for this movement.
Email us for rate and availability: [email protected]
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