Collectible! Circa 1970s Waltham Maxim VIP Cal NT157 Tank 17J Mechanical Watch (Fully Serviced)

Make: Waltham
Type: Mechanical
Model: Maxim VIP Tank Black Dial  
Year of Production: Circa 1970s
Movement: NT-157
BPH: 21,600
Number of Jewels: 17
Hand and Dial: Roman Numerals with Baton Hands
Width: 27.6mm
Lug to Lug Height: 39mm
Thickness: 6.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Strap: Hi-Quality Vintage Camille Fournet Genuine Reptile Leather Strap with Silver Buckle

Founded in 1850 by Aaron Dennison, Edward Howard, and David Davis in Waltham, Massachusetts, it was the first company to produce watches on an assembly line, revolutionizing the watchmaking industry thus earning a strong reputation for their quality and precision, and on-time delivery.

Throughout the late 19th century, Waltham expanded its operations and became one of the leading watchmakers in the United States.

Waltham also played a significant role in supplying watches to the military during both World Wars, further solidifying its reputation for reliability and precision timepieces.

Waltham watches gained popularity not only in the USA but also internationally, establishing the brand as a symbol of American craftsmanship. However, like many watch companies, Waltham faced challenges during the 20th century, including increased competition and changes in consumer preferences.

The company adapted to these challenges by diversifying its product range and exploring new markets; yet, sales began to decline due to the quartz revolution.

The Waltham brand was acquired by various companies circa 1957, and production of Waltham watches shifted to different parts of the world.

Here we have a highly sort-after circa 1970s Maxim VIP Tank Cal NT-157 in stunning condition.

A good and thorough clean-up revealed a beautifully preserved Navy Blue Dial, White Roman Numeral Indices and Baton Hands.

Its classy and stylish tank shaped silver case was buffed as best as possible without compromising its shape and lines albeit a few minor scratches that are barely noticeable. The original crystal was buffed and is in good condition albeit scratches are still present.

The signed crown is located at the traditional 3H position and is easily accessible. The quickset time is adjusted via the traditional method of uncorking the crown and turning the crown accordingly.

The Caliber NT-157 movement was carefully stripped, meticulously cleaned, oiled, re-assembled, and calibrated on 14 August 2024. In short, it was given a thorough servicing and should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby giving the owner peace of mind.

Equipped with the high grade and highly prized Swiss Made Cal NT-157 movement made from stainless steel, it has an 17 Jewels and operate at 21,600 BPH. The time-grapher, after hours of calibration, shows stunning readings of -1 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 213 with a super 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, the meticulous care provided over the years, and expert calibration.

The case width and height are approximately 27.6mm (w/o crown) and 39mm respectively. The lug width is 18mm and the strap can accommodate wrists up to 19.5cm; thus suitable for men and women.

The timepiece comes with a Hi-Quality Vintage Camille Fournet Genuine Reptile Leather Strap with Silver Buckle.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Waltham components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket or modified parts.

TAKE NOTE: THIS WATCH DOES NOT ORIGINALLY COME WITH A BEZEL SEAL AND CROWN GASKET; HENCE, IT IS NOT WATER RESISTENT.

The pictures provided shows the watch in stunning condition (no dents and major scratches), and the movement within squeaky clean 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, so a simple aftermarket box / pouch will be provided instead.

This extremely rare watch will make a beautiful birthday present for that special someone, and its value will appreciate over time.

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

Because it is extremely rare, this 17J Waltham Maxim VIP Tank Caliber NT-157 movement is not easily found on auction and online sites.

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 180.00 to S$ 200.00 for a thorough servicing, and an estimated S$ 100.00 to calibrate, and S$ 40.00 to clean and buff the case - these costs do not apply when purchasing this timepiece. So, if anyone was to sell such a timepiece at a low price yet claim that it has been serviced, one has to ask what kind of servicing was conducted, if any.

This is a highly sort-after Waltham Maxim VIP Tank Cal NT-157 in stunning condition; so, be unique and wear a watch that is almost impossible to source in such fine condition.