Rediscovering The Antarctic GMT: Nivada Grenchen’s Tribute To Its Iconic 1970s GMT Watch
Nivada Grenchen has unveiled an exciting revival from its archives, the Antarctic GMT, a modern reissue of its first GMT watch, the Ref. 87013, originally released in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This vintage-inspired piece closely mirrors its predecessor, capturing the spirit of classic watchmaking and delivering a blend of timeless design and functionality.
The Antarctic GMT features a cushion-shaped steel case that holds to the original dimensions: 36mm in diameter, 11.10mm thick, and 41mm in length. The polished case includes the iconic twin crowns – one positioned at 2 o’clock to adjust the inner bezel, and the other at 4 o’clock for setting the time, date, and GMT hand. Another nod to its heritage is the domed Plexiglass crystal, which enhances the watch’s retro aesthetic. The screw-in solid case back displays the brand’s signature golden centre with an engraved penguin motif, adding a unique touch. However, unlike the original, this reissue offers 50 meters of water resistance instead of the 200 meters of its predecessor.
The black dial of the Antarctic GMT is adorned with a two-tone 24-hour bezel, split into black and yellow to signify night and day hours. This feature allows for tracking a third-time zone with the red-and-black checkered GMT hand. The polished hour markers and hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. A date window with a white background at the 3 o’clock position completes the classic design. For purists and collectors, Nivada Grenchen has introduced a limited edition of 99 pieces with a unique brown “Tropical” dial, a tribute to the aged look of vintage timepieces.
Powering this new Antarctic GMT is the reliable Soprod C125 automatic movement. With 25 jewels, a frequency of 28,800 Vph, and a 42-hour power reserve, the movement ensures precision and durability, aligning with the brand’s reputation for quality.
True to Nivada Grenchen’s style, the Antarctic GMT arrives with multiple strap options, including a beads-of-rice steel bracelet, a rally-style leather strap, and a rubber strap. Starting at €1,500, this timepiece will be available for pre-order beginning on November 14, providing collectors and watch enthusiasts a chance to secure a piece of Nivada Grenchen’s storied legacy.
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General Specifications:
Brand: Nivada Grenchen
Model: Antartic GMT
Dial: Black, brown
Lume: Super-LumiNova
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 36 mm Diameter, 11.10 mm thickness, 41 mm lug-to-lug
Crystal: Domed Plexiglass
Case Back: Stainless steel
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Strap: Stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet, leather strap, rubber strap
Calibre: Soprod C125
Dimensions: 25.60 mm Diameter, 4.20 mm thickness
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, GMT, date
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)
Jewels: 25
Power Reserve: 42 Hours
Availability: November 14th 2024
Price: € 1,500
Limited Edition: No (black), Yes (brown) 99 pieces