Collectible! 1970s Nivada Grenchen "Leonardo Da Vinci" Cal. ETA 2472 21J Automatic (OH)

Make: Nivada Switzerland
Type: Automatic
Model: Grenchen Leonardo Da Vinci
Year of Production: Circa 1970s
Movement: ETA 2472
BPH: 18,000
Number of Jewels: 21
Hand and Dial: 3D Baton Indices and Baton Hands
Width: 35.2mm
Lug to Lug Height: 40.8mm
Thickness: 12.3mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Bracelet / Strap: Original Nivada Signed SS Bracelet
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

Founded in Grenchen, Switzerland, in 1926 (sometimes cited as 1879) by Jacob Schneider. Nivada quickly gained a reputation for reliable and affordable Swiss watches.

During the 1960s–1970s, Japan was one of the largest importers of Swiss watches, but the country also had a booming domestic industry (Seiko, Citizen, Orient).

For Swiss brands like Nivada (especially after the quartz crisis), Japan was a critical export market but also a very difficult one: Japanese buyers wanted value-driven watches, and local distributors often demanded exclusive designs to stand out in an oversaturated market.

Here we have a Nivada Grenchen "Leonardo Da Vinci" Cal 2472 21J Automatic, a watch extremely popular in Japan.

This beautifully cushion shaped silver case underwent a good clean-up while maintaining its super sexy curves. Most imperfections were removed without compromising the case shape however miniscule scratches still exist. The original crystal was polished and is in excellent condition.

The signed crown is original and is located at the 3H position and is nicely tucked away yet easily accessible.

The movement was carefully stripped, meticulously cleaned, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 4 December 2025; hence it underwent a full servicing. It should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby providing the owner peace of mind. 

Equipped with the ETA 2472 movement, it has 21 Jewels and operate at 18,000 BPH. The time-grapher shows stunning readings of -1 seconds and amplitude of 276 with a relatively straight centered line! Such readings are truly exceptional even by brand new modern automatic watch standards whereby the accepted tolerance is -20 to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, excellent power reserve and longevity for such a vintage timepiece, the meticulous care provided over the years, and of course the painstaking calibration conducted.

The case width and height are approximately 35.2mm (w/o crown) and 40.8mm respectively. The lug width is 18mm and the bracelet can accommodate wrists up to 18cm; hence, this watch is suitable for men and the modern women.

The watch is accompanied by its original Nivada Signed SS Bracelet that had undergone a thorough clen-up and buff. Most NIvada Leonardo's found in the market do not come with the original bracelet; hence, they are cheaper in value.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Nivada components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket parts or modified thereby it is considered in excellent condition.

Even though the seals and gaskets are in place, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested due to its age.

The pictures provided shows the watch in stunning condition and well maintained. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear + tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. A nice purposeful carrying case or box will be provided instead.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life and should be cherished and well taken care of for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

Yes, there are many other same models in the market, but almost all are not in the same quality condition and is well maintained as what you see here. Hence, it is a no-brainer that this one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone! Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

This is a highly sort-after Collectible Nivada Grenchen Leonardo Da Vinci 21J automatic with original bracelet in excellent condition; so, be unique and wear a watch that is almost impossible to source.

This is a must-have for the Nivada die-hard fan, and in fact, any serious watch collector!