by John Sealander
When Tourneau introduced its famous Sectora wristwatch in 1980, it became an instant classic. This iconic art deco timepiece featured two retrograde hands encased in a distinctive asymmetric case. The watch represented a totally different way to tell time and reminded many of an automobile speedometer.
The historic watch featured a seven jewel Swiss V8 movement and was available in gold plate and 18K versions. Although the original Sectora has been out of production for many years, it is still a highly sought after item on the auction market.
With this illustrious history, it wasn’t surprising that when Tourneau opened its new four story flagship Madison Avenue Concept Store in June of 2011, they featured the Sectora in the store’s unique in-store museum. Many manufacturers have produced watches with retrograde jump hour movements before, but the Sectora’s beautiful design and unique dual retrograde movement was the watch that really captured the public’s attention.
Tourneau Asymetric Sectora Watch Displayed at the Tourneau Museum
Jean d’Eve Sectora II Automatic Watch
When renowned Swiss watchmaker Jean d’Eve re-introduced this double retrograde design in the mid-1980’s with it’s own Sectora series, a new star was born. Jean d’Eve Sectora watches are now recognized as a pioneer in retrograde display technology. The new Jean d’Eve Sectora II Automatic builds on its predecessor’s double retrograde heritage with a new mechanical movement based on the famed ETA-2892. Jean d’Eve has added its own proprietary retrograde plate to this movement and fitted the artfully designed asymmetric case with a clear sapphire back, so you can see the movement in action.
The Jean D’Eve Sectora II Automatic pays homage to the original Tourneau design, while updating the watch for today’s customer. The 46mm x 37.5mm stainless steel case is significantly larger than the original design’s 41mm x 32mm dimensions. In addition to the new automatic movement, the Sectora II features an easy to read date window at 12 o’clock and a choice of silvery white or charcoal gray dials. This masculine, retro inspired watch can be fitted with either a custom stainless steel bracelet for a sporty look, or an alligator strap for dressier occasions.
The Sectora II Automatic could easily see success that surpasses the original design that inspired it. The fit and finish of this beautiful art deco design is exceptional for a watch of this price range. Many consider this watch to be the most affordable of any Swiss made, mechanical double retrograde watch available today.
If you’ve been thinking that a double retrograde watch would look good on your wrist, be sure to contact your Jean d’Eve dealer immediately and reserve your Sectora II Automatic today.
Gevril Group US Agent for Jean d’Eve
Gevril Group is the US agent for Jean d’Eve Watches. You can email us or call 845-425-9882.
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