The Eterna calibre 1439 is a classic Swiss automatic movement from the 1950s–60s, used in the Eterna‑Matic Centenaire line and appreciated by vintage collectors and watchmakers for its robust ball‑bearing rotor system and solid timekeeping.
Why it matters to enthusiasts
It’s a high‑grade, mid‑20th century automatic ebauche, representative of Eterna’s reputation for sturdy, long‑wearing movements.
The movement is typical of the “ball‑bearing automatic” era, where Eterna used a rotor on ball bearings instead of a traditional friction pivot, reducing wear and improving reliability.
Collectors value 1439‑based watches (especially the Centenaire models) as elegant, wearable dress watches with good historical interest and solid build quality.
For hobbyist watchmakers, it’s a very serviceable movement: the layout is straightforward, parts are fairly available from vintage suppliers, and the movement is strong enough to survive daily wear with proper servicing.
Technical specifications
Type: Self‑winding / automatic mechanical, lever escapement.
Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (18,000 bph), equivalent to 2.5 Hz.
Jewels: 21 jewels.
Power reserve: Around 40 hours (typical of similar automatics of that era).
Date: Featuring a quick‑set date function, common in the “1439U” variant.
Rotor: Ball‑bearing mounted oscillating weight, a hallmark of Eterna’s automatic design.
Production start: Calibre 1439 began production around 1956 and was used into the 1960s.
Practical notes for watchmakers
The movement is well suited for overhauls: it strips and reassembles cleanly, and the ball‑bearing rotor is less prone to wear than friction pivots.
When servicing, check for pitting or wear on the ball bearings and pawl wheel, and ensure the winding click is strong and secure.
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Stem, Crown, Hands & Spares might be available for this movement.
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