Abercrombie & Fitch wasn't always what we think of today. In fact, the first iteration of the brand (1892 - 1977) used to be New York's most luxurious outfitter for sporting goods. Notable figures from Ernest Hemingway to U.S. presidents were customers of the retailer, where one could find everything from a canoe to the best trekking gear available the world over. Amongst the various essential tools sold were of course wrist watches. In the late 1940s, A&F tasked Heuer with creating a watch capable of tracking tidal movements. The intriguing part of this tale is that a young Jack Heuer, merely 15 years old, collaborated with his physics teacher to design the intricate mechanisms of wheels and cogs required to display tidal times for a specific location. These tidal chronographs made their debut in the early 1950s and continued to be produced until the 1970s. Some were crafted under the "Seafarer" name for A&F or as "Solunargraph" for Orvis, a specialized retailer in high-quality fishing gear. Due to their highly specialized nature, only a scant number of these tidal watches were manufactured, and very few have survived to this day. 

This first execution example displays honest condition throughout with a sharp and unpolished case. The dial of course has patina but we believe it provides immense character and a window into its past. For anyone with an affinity for nautical life, this Mareograph is a seldom seen gem. With a recent overhaul, it is ready for its next chapter on the breezy shores. 

Dial: Clearly has lots of patina. This is normal to see for Heuer of this era. We believe it displays honest condition and signs of a well loved timepiece. Bezel insert: Excellent with normal signs of use. Hands: Are matching. There is some lume missing in the minute hand but they could always be color matched down the road without affecting value. Case: Excellent and appears completely unpolished showing original chamfers. Lettering still visible on the back. Pushers appear correct and crown is likely a service replacement. Bracelet: Two piece calf leather strap in grey. Accessories: Patina for the ages. All functions of the watch operate flawlessly. The recently serviced movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 1-year mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1970’s Reference: 2446C Serial Number: 11XXXX Dimensions: 40mm wide, 20mm lug width. Movement: Legendary Valjoux 72.