The Eterna 704 calibre stands as a hallmark of 1930s Swiss horology, captivating vintage watch enthusiasts and hobbyist watchmakers with its robust chronograph design. Closely resembling the Valjoux 71, this manual-wind movement powered elegant steel-cased timepieces, blending precision engineering with Art Deco aesthetics.
Historical Context
Debuted in the early 1930s, the E704 equipped Eterna chronographs featuring three registers: a central chronograph seconds, a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, and a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock.
Typically housed in 38mm staybrite or stainless steel cases with plexiglass crystals, these watches boasted serial numbers like 249362 and work numbers around 2765487.
Production emphasized durability for daily wear, with a focus on clean lines and functional elegance, making it a favorite for restoration projects today.
Technical Specifications
Size: 14 lignes (approximately 31.2mm diameter).
Type: Manual-wind column-wheel chronograph.
Jewels: 17 jewels.
Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour (A/h).
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock; chronograph seconds (central); 30-minute and 12-hour counters.
Balance: Glucydur screwed balance with flat Nivarox hairspring; Eterna-U shock protection.
Power Reserve: Around 40-45 hours.
Height: 7.5mm, allowing slim case profiles.
Finishing: Polished bridges with perlage on plates; blued screws.
Servicing Insights
Balance staff and mainspring replacements are straightforward, with subs available from specialists like Boley.
Common wear points include the column wheel and clutch; disassembly reveals a hammer-winding precursor influence from Eterna’s 1938 automatics.
Hobbyists prize its serviceability—expect smooth resets and reliable amplitude post-overhaul, often achieving +5 to -5 seconds per day accuracy.
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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