1970s Arola 'Camaro' Chronograph 37mm Valjoux 7734
Ref: N/A
Specification
Lugs : 19mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box & Papers : None
Case Material : Chrome and Stainless Steel Back
Warranty : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
Points of Mention
This watch is sold as "Watch Only" and, therefore, comes with no original Arola box or Arola papers. The watch comes paired with a well-suited Watch Gecko 19mm leather strap and pin buckle. The watch is from Circa. 1970s and is in worn, vintage condition, as seen from the photos. However, the watch is in good condition for its age, and the dial is original. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.
For more photos see here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ITv-oJC-FgZCLmEsqqyrUIM2jvB-8qYE?usp=drive_link
4K YouTube video, skip to 29:04 - https://youtu.be/8YANC3aOsbE
The Watch
Here we have a 1970s Arola 'Camaro' Chronograph Valjoux 7734. It's 37mm polished and brushed chrome-plated cushion-shaped case curves over your wrist thanks to the straight-angled lugs. Heuer, BWC, Glycine, and many others used this sporty case aesthetic during the same time period. The curved flanks lead to a comfortable lug-to-lug length of 43mm and a case thickness of 12mm. Down the right side, we have the chronograph pushers and a coin-edged crown in the centre. A radially brushed top surface encircles a domed crystal sitting above a sunburst two-tone black and silver dial. An outer blue Tachymeter scale chapter ring surrounds a precisely executed red accent minute track, applied block indexes tipped with Tritium mark the hours; at 3 o’clock, a 30-minute register; at 6 o’clock, a framed date window; and at 9 o’clock, a small seconds register, at 12 o’clock we have the Arola motif and at 6 o’clock “Incabloc 17 Jewels T Swiss T” completes this sports chronograph, the way the dial design is configured reminds us of a racing car dashboard. White baton hands filled with Tritium are complemented by a red tapered chronograph hand. On the reverse, a stainless steel solid case back, inside a manually wound Valjoux Cal. 7734, 17 jewels, beating at a leisurely 18,000 beats per hour. It comes paired with a well-suited Watch Gecko 19mm leather strap and pin buckle.
Personal Note
It's certainly not every day you come across a watch like this. One of the nicest dial configurations contested against the case I have had in some time. It is unapologetically 1970s and yet still amazing today. If you want a vintage Chronograph without breaking the bank but also want something to stand out from the crowd, look no further, you have found it!
The Brand
Arola Alfred Rochat & Fils is a distinguished Swiss manufacturer renowned for its high-quality watch movements and timepieces. Situated in the picturesque Valley of Joux in the Jura region of Switzerland, the company has a rich history rooted in the art of watchmaking. Founded by Alfred Rochat in 1941, the establishment began as a personal vision, with Rochat taking the initiative to employ and train a skilled team of watchmakers. Shortly after its inception, the factory acquired the watch brand, Arola, further enhancing its reputation in the horological sphere. The firm is particularly noted for its modified Valjoux 7750, ETA 2892 and Unitas 6497 movements, which have gained traction beyond its own line, utilised by notable brands such as Chronoswiss. Arola Alfred Rochat & Fils initially focused on crafting basic chronographs, which received certification from the official Swiss observatory for chronometry, ensuring precision and reliability. Over the years, the company has expanded its expertise to include a variety of sophisticated movements featuring intricate complications. These developments encompass functionalities such as moon phase indicators, tide indicators, split-seconds chronographs, skeletonised designs, dual time zone displays, day-night indicators, regulators, and jumping hours. This commitment to innovation and craftsmanship positions Arola Alfred Rochat & Fils as a respected player in the world of watchmaking, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.