Allow us to hip you to Lip. Although the name may be unfamiliar to you, the French brand has horological roots going back to 1867 and was the first manufacture to use phosphorescent material (radium) on watch dials and hands, allowing for visibility in low light conditions. They also made early forays into electric watches, though they are probably best known for their striking mid-century modern designs, incorporating vibrant color into asymmetrical cases. This particular Lip is a charming diver from circa the late 1970s. It features a 35mm stainless steel cushion case with an acrylic crystal, a crisp, navy blue dive timing bezel, a sunburst blue Tritium dial with red accents and a matching 'cigarette' handset, and a date window at 3:00. Powered by an automatic movement and paired to blue Tropic-style rubber strap, this piece is in new-old-stock condition, with its factory caseback sticker still on, a hangtag, and a Lip box. An excellent example of midcentury watch design from an important — albeit under-the-radar — brand, it’s a perfect foray into the world of vintage timepieces!
