Founded in 1914 by Ariste Racine, Enicar—named by reversing his surname—thrived for decades before the Quartz Crisis led to its decline and eventual closure in 1987. Though later revived, today’s brand remains distinct from the original Enicar S.A. The company’s legacy centers on the Sherpa line, which defined its peak with technically ambitious models like the Sherpa Graph, Sherpa Jet, and Sherpa Dive—securing Enicar’s place in mid-century tool watch history.

The Sherpa Super-Dive stands out within the lineup for its oversized Super-Compressor case made by Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA), a renowned supplier of water-resistant cases to top Swiss brands in the mid-20th century. These cases used pressure-activated gaskets that increased water resistance with depth, eliminating the need for screw-down crowns—often seen with cross-hatched detailing and signed by Enicar. Distinctive to the model are its bold, beveled lugs, which flare outward from a narrower top to a wider base, giving the watch both a comfortable fit and a strong visual presence. This particular example was previously sold by Hodinkee and remains in lovely vintage condition with a sharp, unpolished case and very well preserved dial/hands. It has honest signs of use seen in tool watches of the era and makes for a great piece to wear and enjoy for many years to come.

Dial: All of the tritium plots are present, full and have taken a warm patina. Overall, excellent for its age with minimal signs of age, including the inner rotating bezel. Bezel: Remains sharp and appears unpolished. Hands: Are matching and their lume is stable. Case: Appears unpolished with sharp markings. The lugs remain thick and even. Normal signs of wear consistent with age. Correct cross-hatched crowns. Bracelet: High quality two piece calf leather strap in brown. Crystal: Has seen some polishing, particularly on the top side at noon, showing a slight indentation, but it is thankfully not distracting. Accessories: NA The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1960s Reference: 144-35-02 Serial: 90XXXX Dimensions: 40mm wide, 48mm lug to lug, 20mm lug width, 14mm thickness. Movement: Automatic Enicar caliber AR 1145.