WristWatch Magazine | Page 101

Historically few other publications have given Waldan or his watches the time of day, but they are definitely a brand apart. The Astronic Chronograph featured here encompasses every detail of top-quality construction and design. Thanks to Oscar’s foresight in buying high-quality mechanical movements when most brands were abandoning them in the 1970’s, it also houses a chronometer certified (COSC) Zenith El Primero movement. Cased-up and tested on an individual basis, each Waldan is effectively built to order. Once assembled each watch then goes through a series of tests for timing, water resistance and power reserve to guarantee perfection once assembled. At just a skosh under 40mm in diameter, the 18-karat stepped gold case still weighs in at a hefty 44 grams—that’s more than 1 ½ ounces of gold surrounding the 1969 El Primero 36,000 bph chronograph movement within. Although a bit small compared to some of today’s super-sized wrist-wear, this is the exact size case that these movements were designed to fit so you won’t find any huge plastic spacers centering a movement within an over-sized case at Waldan. Proportions mattered to Oscar and with the recent trend of more reasonable (and comfortable) case sizes, Waldan’s watches will fit right in. If you’re looking for the perfect combination of a dress watch with a sporty twist - and like the idea of it housing a rare movement saved from the scrap heap of the 1970’s quartz onslaught, then the American-owned and operated (since 1979) Waldan Watches are ready for your wrist. 2016 | WRISTWATCH 99