For sale this handsomely stylish and fun Enicar Chronograph carrying the reference number 072-01-01 and case number 2303.

This chronograph was released during the 1960s along with the larger Sherpa Graph line, and is sometimes mistakenly referred to as a Pre-Sherpa. The present model is called “Garnix” which in German translates to “nothing” which is a nod to the lack of text besides the Enicar name and the Saturn logo, thus a less cluttered dial. It’s more likely the reference 2303 was simply aimed at a different audience than the Sherpa Graph. It’s more akin to a “dress chronograph” that can be worn every day.

Please read the condition report carefully and refer to the high resolution pictures to help you assess the overall condition of the watch.

MODEL / REFERENCE: Enicar “Garnix” chronograph, ref. 072-01-01 case number 2303.

DIAL+ HANDS: While the vast majority of Garnix chronographs come with a monochromatic grey dial, this very example features an original, yet elusive silver variant in good vintage condition. The black imprint is sharp and complete, from the center of the dial all the way through to the peripheral tachymeter scale, and quite literally to the “T”, seen over the 6 o’clock subdial that indicated the used of Tritium. The sunken subdials are positioned at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock following the notorious Valjoux 72 layout. Their outer rings have a different polished finishing, and remain superbly preserved, just like the rest of the ensemble. Enicar achieved a good balance between sports and leisure thanks to its raised, polished indices. Each one is dissected with a vertical black stripe and complemented by a small Tritium plot for better legibility. Upon close inspection by loupe, some surface oxidation can be seen on the indexes. The Tritium dots have show lume loss, as often seen on vintage watches. The hour and minute hands are Enicar’s instantly recognizable paddle hands, which are correct to this reference. Their inlays lost their lume and have hence been relumed professionally. The sweep seconds hand features an intact red lollipop.

CASE: The Enicar Garnix case measures just 36mm in diameter and doesn’t use the same Compressor technology as the Sherpa Graph line. The Garnix is still waterproof, though lacked the “Seapearl” branding seen on the back of more robust Enicar sports watches. The case appears to be unpolished, maintaining its original finish and very sharp outer lines all the way to the downturned ribbon lugs. It shows signs of use, commensurate with age that can be identified as some surface scratches throughout. Overall, this case is in a lovely wearable vintage condition.

CASEBACK: The original screw-down case back is in stainless steel and comes in good aesthetic condition, with slight scratches throughout and opening marks around the six notches. The center displays a pronounced shark medallion, surrounded by a legible engraved text at the periphery. The outer side displays the model reference number 072-01-01, whereas the inner case back is stamped with the Enicar name and case number 2303. CRYSTAL: This Garnix has been fitted with a domed generic Plexiglass crystal, a replacement identical to the original one.

CROWNS+PUSHERS: This watch comes with an unsigned “priest hat” crown a likely replacement that winds the watch and sets the time flawlessly. The pump pushers are correct to the watch, starting and stopping the chronograph functions with no problem and reset perfectly back to zero.

MOVEMENT: Mechanically, this beauty houses the illustrious Valjoux 72 caliber to animate its functions. Renowned for its performance, precision, and robustness, this 17 jewel, manually wound, column wheel movement that features a three register display: A constant running seconds at 9 o’clock, a 30 minutes recorder at 3 o’clock, and a 12H recorder at 6 o’clock. The gilded bridge is signed with the brand’s name and indicates that the movement has been adjusted to meet the brands in-house specifications. The movement has been professionally serviced thus runs smoothly and keeps excellent time. All functions work as intended. It winds, sets and all the chronograph functions work perfectly.

BRACELET: This watch comes with a brand new, high quality leather strap with an unsigned steel buckle.

ACCESSORIES: Saffiano Leather watch roll. Wristwatches linked to professional use tend to become a target for vintage aficionados, with increasing prices as a result. The Enicar Sherpa series including the Jet graph, the Aqua graph and Sherpa graph are increasingly difficult to source, therefore, their prices are skyrocketing up. This reference currently on offer is the best of both worlds: Associated with a legendary brand and a less expensive alternative to other lineups but with a long road ahead. Functionally and aesthetically, this Garnix nails it. It is a great entry point not only into Enicar the brand, but to mid-century chronographs as a class.

WARRANTY: We guarantee the authenticity of the watch. We also provide a 12 months guarantee for the correct function of this vintage timepiece. All guarantees are subject to the General Terms and conditions.

Please feel free to ask questions, we will be glad to answer. Virtual or face-to-face viewing is available by appointment.