When it comes to under-the-radar vintage watch companies, Zodiac should be one of the first brands to come to mind. Zodiac made several sports models in the 50s-60s and were direct competitors to Rolex, Blancpain, and Tudor but are often looked over as they don't receive the same clout as the aforementioned companies. However, this is to the advantage of the collectors who enjoy the subtle, or not-so-subtle nuances that the Zodiac timepieces carry. Zodiac timepieces often feature bright color combinations that can make any vintage watch collector swoon.

The Sea Wolf was introduced first in 1953 (the same year as the Rolex Submariner) and was one of the first diving sports watches marketed for the general public and it performed well for the brand. The second generation of Sea Wolfs includes some of the most interesting and colorful diving watches from the era,  bright oranges, blues, and greens to make both highly visible and highly attractive wristwatches.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The exceptional case exhibits full, crisp, and symmetrical lugs that show no notable evidence of previous polishing and feature honest signs of gentle use. The light blue and fluorescent orange bidirectional ratcheting bakelite bezel is in great vintage condition, showing some cracks and wear. The case retains its original Zodiac signed button crown, which operates the quickset date function. The case back retains all of the factory markings in crisp condition. The watch comes on its original JB Champion-made stainless steel Zodiac bracelet. The bracelet retains 18 links that show normal stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original, incredibly rich, and beautiful glossy inner dial has achieved an impressively even tropical brown patina while the outer dial retains its bright fluorescent orange coloration. The dial exhibits no damage or negative elements of age, remaining in near-perfect vintage condition. The orange-bordered tritium lume plots have achieved a charming creamy patina and exhibit no degradation when inspected under UV light. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, under UV light inspection there is some superficial surface cracking present in the lume of the hands but no actual degradation.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.