Wittnauer Professional Chronograph

If the watchword for 1940s and 1950s chronograph design was unobtrusive, then the 1960s turned that idea on its head. The renewed popularity of sports like race car driving and sailing meant that watch manufactures were churning out sporty chronographs. Many of these followed the templates set by the Omega Speedmaster or Heuer Carrera, with large, sturdy steel cases and streamlined dials.

As the decade wore on, many other brands capitalized on the success of these watches by releasing versions of their own, capturing the spirit of 1960s design with a unique flair.

Though an old brand with a long-established lineage in aviation, it was during this period that Wittnauer truly flourished.

In the 1950s, the brand was fully encompassed by Longines, whose watches it had distributed in the United States. The watches that Wittnauer produced during this period are known for their bold designs and robust internals. A chronograph made by Wittnauer was even considered by NASA for inclusion in the Apollo space program, but eventually lost out to the Omega Speedmaster.

The fact that it was even considered emboldened the brand to release a line of “professional” chronographs of its own, following the example of Omega, which had rechristened the Speedmaster as the Speedmaster Professional.

This watch, the Reference 7004A, is one of these.

If the 242T, which is regarded by many collectors as Wittnauer's contender for NASA's Qualification Test Procedures, is all form-follows-function, then the 7004A is all form—and a handsome one at that.

True, while the rotating bezel might have a functional purpose, its cherry-red color doesn’t seem to serve any purpose except to catch eyes. In contrast to the black dial, it certainly does draw the eye out... and around. This splash of color is echoed in the 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, giving it an additional flair.

With great colors, a terrific movement and a perfectly-sized steel case, you'd be hard-pressed to find a cooler vintage chronograph for the money.

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.