Wittnauer 245T GMT Chronograph

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SKU AS02213
SKU AS02213

Why We Love it

Ever wish that you could find a watch that has the cushion case of a late-model Heuer Autavia, the Mercedes hands of a Rolex Submariner, a GMT function, and is also a chronograph?

Well, here it is!

While we’re tempted to just drop the mic and leave it there, we’re not going to miss an opportunity to extol the virtues of this watch—the Wittnauer 245T GMT Chronograph.

Some collectors might refer to this watch as a “poor man’s Heuer,” due to its similarity to versions of GMT Autavias in the large cushion cases popular in the 1970s. However, this watch has enough going for it on its own to merit consideration.

First is the watch’s overall general aesthetic. While the Heuer Autavia GMT used the “Pepsi”—that is, blue and red—color configuration made popular (even ubiquitous) by the Rolex GMT Master, this watch has a red and black rotating GMT bezel. Often referred to as a “Coke” bezel by collectors—because reasons—this color-way is less often seen.

On this watch, the bezel has taken on a weathered, faded look that’s less fire engine red and more burnt orange, which we absolutely love.

Then there are the Mercedes hands, a feature seen on only one Heuer Autavia—the Diver 100. Though more or less the exclusive purview of Rolex, the fact that they’re found on a chronograph made by another brand—let alone a Wittnauer—is something quite exotic. We love how the handset has taken on a positively pumpkin-colored patina that matches the hour markers.

Next, and perhaps most importantly, are the internals. This watch is powered by the Valjoux 724, a variant of the redoubtable Valjoux 72 with an added GMT function. Known for being a workhorse of a movement that’s as beautiful as it is reliable, the Valjoux 72 has collectors simply raving (including us).

Not least of all is the fact that Wittnauer is an old brand with a pedigree just as admirable as Heuer’s. Established in New York in the 1890s, Wittnauer made its name making the kind of sturdy, dependable, rough-and-ready chronographs and instruments that aviators like Amelia Earhart and Jimmy Mattern loved. With a reputation like that, it’s hard to go wrong.

Quite the rare bird, this Witty would be the perfect addition to any collection, so it’s best to snatch it up before it flies away.

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Wittnauer 245T GMT Chronograph

Wittnauer 245T GMT Chronograph

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Wittnauer 245T GMT Chronograph