The Eterna calibre 1459 is a compact mid‑1960s automatic movement that brings Eterna‑Matic engineering to elegant ladies’ and small‑case watches. It rewards careful servicing and offers a robust platform for sympathetic restoration.
Historical context
Introduced in the mid‑1960s as a small‑diameter automatic for ladies’ and cocktail pieces derived from the broader Eterna‑Matic family.
Built on the architecture of Eterna’s slim automatic base calibres, sharing the characteristic ball‑bearing rotor concept scaled down for smaller cases.
Typically found in gold‑filled or steel dress watches with minimalist dials, often with applied indices and modest water resistance.
Technical specifications
Type: Automatic winding, centre seconds, time‑only (no date in standard form).
Beat rate: 21,600 vibrations per hour, a step up from earlier 18,000 vph Eterna‑Matics for improved rate stability.
Jewels: Fully jewelled train, including rotor bearing and automatic winding components for reduced wear.
Diameter and height: Compact, thin profile designed for small cases; movement ring or spacer often used in slightly larger dress cases.
Winding system: Bi‑directional rotor with Eterna’s low‑friction bearing system and efficient click‑wheel transmission.
Watchmaker’s notes
Access: Dial‑side work is tight; hand setting and calendar‑side work (if present in a variant) demand fine tools and steady hands.
Parts: Donor movements are the most realistic source for wheels, setting parts and rotor assemblies; plan ahead before committing to heavy restoration.
Regulation: Responds well to careful poising and fine regulation; positional performance is respectable when balance and pivots are in good condition.
Collecting and restoration
Appeal: Ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy smaller vintage pieces with serious mechanical pedigree rather than generic ébauches.
Value: Often overlooked, so movements and complete watches can still be found at reasonable prices, making it a good entry point into Eterna‑Matic collecting.
Preservation: Prioritise original dials and hands; cases are frequently polished, so unpolished examples command a premium among discerning collectors.
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