Checkered flag
Quick facts
Brand: Nivada
Model: Taravana 'Exotic' racing
Reference: N/A
Year: 1970's
Case: Stainless steel, 37mm
Caliber: Valjoux 7736, manual wound
What about it
In the 1960s, chronographs were instrumental in calculating average speed. The inclusion of the checkered flag motif was a deliberate enhancement aimed at augmenting their practicality and overall functionality.
For me, the 1960s marked the zenith of chronograph design. Singer, during the late 60s, manufactured these distinctive black dials offered to various watchmakers. Considering the limited production runs at that time, these watches were crafted in very small batches, often just a few dozen units, resulting in their rarity today. Utilized by multiple brands, these dials were featured in both three and two-register layouts. What truly sets these timepieces apart, in my view, is the 'checkered flag' circle encompassing the dial. The hour markers, rendered in two colors - red and yellow - add to their uniqueness. Additionally, the chronograph seconds hand commonly appears in red. Most of these dials lacked luminescent material, with only 'Swiss Made' inscription positioned at 6 o'clock.
37
Diametermm
18
Lug widthmm
18000
Frequencyvph
45
Power h
plastic
Crystal
Fratello × Nivada Grenchen Racing Chronograph
Comfort and wearability were paramount when designing the Fratello × Nivada Grenchen Racing Chronograph. Drawing inspiration from another gem in Nivada's vintage catalog, the rare Nivada Chronosport, we adopted its distinctive case shape to create the perfect home for our timepiece. We made slight adjustments while maintaining the vintage charm, such as opting for a steel tachymeter bezel and increasing the case size to 38mm. The result? A slim case measuring only 13.75mm in thickness with a lug-to-lug distance of 44.3mm, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious fit on nearly any wrist. The bullet-style bracelet, tapering from 20mm to 16mm at the buckle, is a special vintage touch that emphasizes the watch while maintaining an unparalleled elegance.
Exotic racing dials
Singer, renowned for dial production, crafted these dials in the late 1960s, exhibiting minor design variations. Omega prominently featured these dials on Speedmaster and Seamaster models (145.006/016). Additionally, smaller brands such as Duval, Nivada, Baylor, Glycine, Gigandet, and Mathey-Tissot also incorporated these dials. The Racing dials feature vibrant, contrasting colors along the outer track, believed to optimize the chronograph's readability, particularly for quick glances. Complementing this design, the hands often adopt a vivid red-orange hue, frequently extending to the running seconds hand, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Interestingly, despite its distinctive look, this particular style didn't gain widespread popularity.
Market
Availability: Ultra rare
1 watch for sale
Pricing: 3,000 €
(Dec 2023)
References
Nothing much written about this watch. But, Nivada did make a revival. So, some articles about remake model.
Related
Baylor "Exotic" chronograph
Straps
Some recommended strap options for this watch. External links to their webshops.
