Wittnauer Exotic Dial Chronograph

Albert Wittnauer immigrated to New York City in the 1870s, to work for his brother-in-law, Eugene Robert, an importer of fine Swiss timepieces by brands such as Jaeger LeCoultre and Vacheron et Constantin. In 1885, at the age of only thirty-one, he established the A. Wittnauer Company in 1885. Soon after the company's establishment, Wittnauer became the distributor for Longines watches in the United States.

Together with Longines, Wittnauer gained a reputation for their excellent aviation instruments and chronographs. Aviators such as Amelia Earhart piloted their planes with instruments made by Wittnauer. Daredevil aviator Jimmy Mattern wore a Wittnauer AllProof in his aborted flight around the world in 1933. 

Longines formally bought Wittnauer in the 1950s, and the brand continued to produce exceptional chronographs at a more competitive price point than their Swiss contemporaries. But like so many watch brands, Wittnauer folded in the face of budget crises in the mid-1980s, causing Longines to dissolve their relationship with Wittnauer. Their watches remain, a testament to their ingenuity and elegance.

This watch, the ref. 3256-228T, has everything you could want in a vintage chronograph. Perhaps the most interesting and unique feature of this watch is the dial, in a distinctive, exotic color scheme that just screams 70s, with elegant tapered lugs to soften the strong retro vibe it exudes. It's also powered by a dependable movement, the 14Y, a modified Landeron 249 produced especially for Wittnauer. 

We've been touting Wittnauer chronographs for years, and for good reason. They combine sturdy steel cases with distinctive dials and a history that's just as reputable as other horological heavy-hitters like Universal Genève and Breitling. If you've been lusting after a vintage chronograph but want something a little off the beaten path, then look no further.

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.

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.