MODEL / REFERENCE: Nivada Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver – (CASD), ref. 85017/4531. This variation of the CASD is shown on page 226 of the Chronomaster Only book.

DIAL+HANDS: The striking matte black dial comes with the particularly distinct Nivada logo. The sharp white on black imprint was not only designed with easy legibility in mind, but also makes the watch feel like a real utility tool that has been found in untouched condition. Despite the homogenous and subtle ghosting patina throughout, there are very subtle blemishes to note. Also, it boasts loads of details including a bi-compax layout carried by the engine turned subdials with a bright red yachting sector on the 30 minute counter. There is also a precisely circumscribed, peripheral tachymeter scale around the edge of the chapter ring. It’s very legible without busying the dial. The Tritium-coated hour indexes are evenly aged and intact. The Tritium glows when activated under UV light, and then fades off. The white hour and minute baton hands have beautifully aged lume inlays as well. The central seconds hand is neon orange and, contrasts beautifully with the black dial hence a better legibility.

CASE: The stainless steel case measures an impressive yet, somehow refreshingly compact diameter of 38.5mm and 46mm from lug to lug. The dimensions permit a great undeniable vintage feel when it comes to the wrist presence. The overall execution, manifested by the sharply drawn lines creates a certain tool aspect. The case appears to be upolished and managed to preserve the razor sharp and drilled lugs. Speaking of which, they have a long, flowing curve to them, a very typical of 1960s bi-compax styles. The case is overall beautifully intact, with few small scratches and throughout consistent with the age and use of the watch. One more distinctive feature is the combination of elements on the constantly rotating, bidirectional bezel that comes with a coin-edge profile for an easy grip. The bezel features a black anodized Aluminum insert that retains its classic double-scale: A 60-minute one for diving and a smaller 12-hour one to display a second time zone. Condition wise, it shows no signs of corrosion and very subtle marks, especially between 8h and 9h, commensurate with the use of this cool tool.

CASEBACK: The plain stainless steel screw down case back is in lovely vintage condition, retaining a mix of a brushed finish at the center over a surrounding polished rim. Besides the very minor surface marks, there is a noticeable scratch across the case back from a previous opening attempt. The caseback may have been swapped at one point of time.

CRYSTAL: The acrylic crystal, armed with a tension ring is correct to the watch, displaying some minor surface scratches.

CROWN+PUSHERS: The crown appears to be a replacement for not bearing the brand’s signature. It is nicely sized and grooved nevertheless for easy winding and time setting. The pump pushers appear to be correct and operate as intended: Starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph.

MOVEMENT: Nivada relies on the celebrated hand-wound, Valjoux 23 caliber to power this Chronomaster. The Rhodium plated, 17 jewels, movement with a column wheel features a bi-compax display for a constant running seconds at 9 o’clock and 30 min recorder at 3. Cherry on top, the bridge bears a gilded brand’s name. The movement is clean and has been recently serviced thus runs strongly and keeps accurate time. It winds, sets and the chronograph functions perfectly and resets crisply.

BRACELET: To complement its rugged look, the present CASD chronograph has been fitted with a suede leather strap, with 20mm in width and a quick-release function.

ACCESSORIES: Saffiano Leather watch roll.

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.