Why This Watch Matters A Cricket that will chirp only when you need it most. The Full Story The Vulcain Cricket is one of the most famous mechanical alarm watches ever to come out of Switzerland. Introduced in 1947 at an event at the storied Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, the Cricket established itself early on by being gifted to nearly every single American President from Harry Truman onward. To this day, when we think of great mechanical alarm watches, the Cricket is always part of the conversation. And indeed, Vulcain’s history is intricately intertwined with that of the mechanical alarm watch, a testament to the success of the aptly named Cricket. We’re excited to offer this elegant gold-plated example in nice, honest condition. The dial reads "waterprotected" at six o’clock, meaning this was advertised as being water resistant, which itself is pretty neat. Another nice detail on the dial is the applied Vulcain logo in gold tone at the 12 o'clock position. This example is in overall great, original condition, and when strapped on it feels quite substantial. Setting the alarm function is straightforward and easy. The watch must first be wound (forward and backward, for timekeeping and alarm functions). Next, press the pusher down at two o'clock until it clicks. This will eject the crown, which can then be rotated to set the alarm. The fourth hand acts as its indicator. Simply push the crown in, and the alarm is set and ready to go. We paired this Cricket on our Sedona strap in a light green tone for summer. The Fine Print Maker: VulcainModel: CricketReference: S2316AYear: 1960sCase No: N/AMaterial: Stainless steelDimensions: 35mm diameter; 11mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Vulcain, manually-wound, caliber 120Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Sedona Calfskin Watch Strap In Havasu FallsLug Width: 18mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Mechanical "Cricket" alarm- "Waterprotected" case- Interesting case shape for a Cricket Things To Know: - Scratches on case This Vulcain Cricket is in overall excellent condition. The case is very strong with scratches and some light wear to the gold plating. The caseback shows some wear, but all the writing is visible. The facets on the lugs are clearly visible, as are the areas where the lugs meet the case. The dial is clean with a light patina throughout that makes it present slightly creamy and overall attractive. The lume has all developed patina. The lume on the dial has developed some patina around each individual plot, too. The hands have developed some very light oxidation. This watch has retained its original crown with "V" on it. The dial, crown, case, and movement are all signed by Vulcain. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
