The Eterna calibre 1448UX is a mid‑century Eterna‑Matic automatic movement valued today for its reliable architecture, smooth winding, and suitability for sympathetic restoration in vintage pieces. It offers a satisfying balance between technical interest and bench‑friendly serviceability for hobbyist watchmakers.
Context and design
Developed as part of Eterna’s post‑war Eterna‑Matic family, sharing the famous ball‑bearing rotor concept that later inspired ETA’s rotor system.
Oriented toward robust everyday watches rather than haute complications, making surviving examples common enough for parts hunting yet still collectible.
Often encountered in dressy steel or gold‑plated cases, so movement condition can vary widely depending on moisture ingress history.
Technical specifications
Type: Automatic, centre seconds, date (depending on variant).
Winding: Bi‑directional rotor winding using the characteristic Eterna ball‑bearing rotor hub.
Frequency: Vintage low‑beat rate typical of the era, aiding in visual regulation and reducing wear.
Jewels: Fully jewelled train with jeweled rotor bearings and modern shock‑protected balance.
Escapement: Swiss lever, monometallic balance with flat hairspring and shock protection.
Indications: Hours, minutes, central seconds; calendar variants with quick‑set by crown manoeuvre or date‑change cycling.
Watchmaker’s bench notes
Disassembly is straightforward, with logical bridge layout and accessible automatic module, suitable for an advanced hobbyist working slowly and methodically.
The automatic works and calendar mechanism reward careful photography during teardown; small springs and levers are easy to misplace but predictable once documented.
Rotor bearing wear and dried oils in reversing wheels are common service points; a proper clean and correct oiling transform winding efficiency.
Collecting and use
Ideal for enthusiasts wanting a “real” Eterna‑Matic experience without risking scarce high‑grade chronometer pieces.
Serviced examples make excellent regular‑wear watches, with parts cannibalisation from donor movements still a viable strategy in many markets.
When buying, dial originality and moisture damage around the keyless works side are more critical than light rotor scuffing, which is typical for the era.
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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