With a legacy spanning 137 years, Eberhard & Co. has consistently forged a bond with the sea, crafting timepieces that not only endure the depths but also embody the spirit of nautical exploration. The Scafograf collection, launched in 1959, stands as a testament to this enduring relationship, and the latest addition, the Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue, further solidifies this legacy.
Founded in 1887 by Georges-Lucien Eberhard in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Eberhard & Co. quickly established itself as a purveyor of precision timekeeping instruments. From its early pocket watches to its groundbreaking wristwatches, the brand has always pushed the boundaries of horological innovation. The 1930s saw the introduction of the iconic "Chronographe Extra-fort," a chronograph that set new standards for robustness and functionality. This commitment to excellence continued through the mid-20th century, culminating in the launch of the Scafograf collection in 1959.
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The Scafograf collection was born during a time of great advancements in underwater exploration. As divers ventured deeper into the oceans, the need for reliable and robust timepieces became paramount. Eberhard & Co. answered this call with the Scafograf, a watch designed to withstand the rigors of the underwater world. The name itself, derived from the Italian words "scafo" (hull) and "grafo" (writer), perfectly encapsulated its purpose: a watch that could record time even in the depths of the ocean. The original Scafograf featured a distinctive design, with a rotating bezel, a luminous dial, and a robust case. It quickly gained popularity among professional divers and watch enthusiasts alike, becoming synonymous with underwater exploration.
The Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue is a testament to Eberhard & Co.'s unwavering commitment to innovation and its deep connection to the maritime world. Unveiled at the 64th Genoa International Boat Show, where Eberhard & Co. proudly serves as the Official Timekeeper, this limited edition timepiece pays homage to the brand's nautical heritage while embracing contemporary design elements.
The watch's most striking feature is its captivating deep blue dial, adorned with a mesmerizing light blue wave pattern. This unique design element not only adds a touch of visual dynamism but also symbolizes the ebb and flow of time, the constant movement of the sea, and the enduring spirit of exploration. The 43 mm stainless steel case, a hallmark of the Scafograf collection, exudes a sense of robustness and reliability, while its sleek lines and polished finish lend it a touch of refined elegance.
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The Onde Bleue embraces its heritage with distinctive details reminiscent of the original 1959 model. The hands and indexes, with their vintage luminescence, evoke a sense of nostalgia, while the absence of a date display reinforces the watch's timeless appeal. The caseback, engraved with the historic starfish, a symbol of the collection since its inception, further reinforces the watch's connection to the sea.
The blue theme extends beyond the dial, with a blue ceramic bezel and an integrated light blue rubber strap, further accentuating the watch's sporty character. For those who prefer a more classic look, the Onde Bleue is also available with a Chassis® stainless steel bracelet, equipped with a 2CLICK® double-button clasp, adding a touch of versatility to this exceptional timepiece.
At the core of the Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue beats a mechanical, self-winding movement, meticulously crafted to deliver exceptional accuracy and reliability. The Glucydur balance, paired with an Anachron balance-spring, ensures optimal stability and resistance to shocks, making the watch suitable for even the most demanding underwater adventures. The central second hand gracefully sweeps across the dial, a visual reminder of the watch's unwavering precision.
The 43 mm stainless steel case, a defining characteristic of the Scafograf collection, strikes a perfect balance between robustness and wearability. Its substantial size commands attention without feeling cumbersome on the wrist, while its 12.60 mm thickness ensures a comfortable fit even under a wetsuit. The screwed steel caseback, personalized and engraved with the iconic starfish, adds a touch of exclusivity, while the domed sapphire crystal, treated with an anti-reflective coating, guarantees optimal legibility even in the harshest conditions.
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As a true diver's watch, the Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue boasts an impressive water resistance of 200 meters, allowing it to accompany you on even the most daring underwater explorations. The automatic helium escape valve, discreetly positioned at 9 o'clock, ensures the watch's integrity during decompression, preventing any damage caused by the buildup of helium inside the case. The screw-down crown, personalized with the "E" emblem, further enhances the watch's water resistance, providing an additional layer of protection against the elements.
The Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue is equipped with vintage luminescence on the hands, indexes, and the first quarter of the minute scale on the bezel. This unique feature not only adds a touch of retro charm but also ensures optimal legibility in low-light conditions, a crucial attribute for any diver's watch. The hour hand, with its original triangular tip inspired by the 1959 model, and the "Baton-shaped" minute hand further enhance the watch's vintage appeal, while the central second hand, with its luminescent circular area, adds a touch of modern flair.
The Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue comes with two strap options, catering to different tastes and preferences. The light blue integrated rubber strap, personalized with the Maison's emblem, the "E" Shield, offers exceptional comfort and durability, making it ideal for active pursuits. The inner part of the strap features small, embossed shields that provide good breathability, ensuring a comfortable fit even in warm climates. The stainless steel buckle, personalized with E&C, adds a touch of sophistication.
Courtesy of Eberhard & Co.
For those who prefer a more classic look, the watch is also available with a Chassis® stainless steel bracelet, equipped with a 2CLICK® double-button clasp. This innovative clasp mechanism allows for quick and easy adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit on any wrist.
With a limited production of only 137 pieces, the Scafograf 200 Onde Bleue is not only a testament to Eberhard & Co.'s rich heritage but also a highly sought-after collector's item. Its exclusivity, combined with its exceptional craftsmanship and technical prowess, makes it a valuable addition to any watch collection.