Presented for auction by Second Vintage
The Calendar Auto Orient Swimmer AAA stands as a testament to the golden era of Japanese watchmaking, combining robust aquatic capability with refined everyday elegance. Characterized by its distinctive fluted bezel and striking dauphine hands, this timepiece channels a sophisticated mid-century aesthetic while maintaining its own unique identity. The Swimmer line was Orient’s answer to the growing demand for durable, water-resistant watches, and this particular example showcases an incredibly attractive aging process that collectors actively seek out.
Brand: Orient
Model: Calendar Auto Orient Swimmer AAA
Reference Number: T 122903
Movement: 21-Jewel Automatic
Dial: Champagne sunburst transitioning to fine stardust patina, applied indices, clean with honest even aging
Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown)
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Production Year: 1960s
Condition: Good vintage condition with highly attractive dial patina and honest case wear
Dial and Hands
The dial is a true visual standout, having gracefully aged from its original silver sunburst finish into a warm, champagne-toned stardust patina. This fine, even spotting is highly attractive and free from distracting localized damage or heavy moisture stains. It features applied faceted baton indices, with double batons at the primary hours, and an applied Orient crest below the twelve o'clock position. The black typography remains crisp and fully legible. A framed date aperture sits at the three o'clock position. The polished dauphine hands maintain excellent shape, housing luminous material that has darkened to a deep, age-consistent tone.
Case and Crystal
The 37 millimeter stainless steel case remains in good vintage condition, exhibiting honest wear and superficial scratches consistent with decades of use. The thick lugs retain their structural integrity and profile. A defining feature is the stainless steel fluted bezel, which adds a layer of light-catching dimension to the watch face. The caseback features a prominent and beautifully preserved engraved crest detailing the Swimmer designation. The watch is fitted with a domed acrylic crystal featuring a date magnifier, which shows minor surface wear but provides a clear view of the striking dial beneath.
Movement
Inside beats Orient's 21-jewel automatic movement, featuring a signed rotor with red lettering. The movement displays expected signs of age and surface wear on the plates and rotor, presenting an authentic vintage aesthetic. Performing well within expected vintage tolerances; running strong and steady. The timegrapher results indicate a rate of +31s to +36s/day.
Strap
The watch is paired with a period correct dark brown leather strap featuring an embossed crocodile grain and a stainless steel pin buckle. The strap complements the warm champagne tones of the patinated dial beautifully.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The watch exhibits a highly desirable and even dial patina, alongside normal, honest case wear that speaks to its history. The caseback engraving remains sharp and distinct.
Dimensions
Case Size: 37 mm (excluding the crown).
Remarks
This Calendar Auto Orient Swimmer AAA is a fantastic opportunity to acquire a robust vintage Japanese timepiece with immense character. The combination of the fluted bezel, dauphine hands, and the incredible stardust dial makes it a versatile and visually captivating addition to any collection.
History
During the 1960s, Japanese manufacturers were locked in fierce competition to produce highly capable, water-resistant automatic watches for the everyday consumer. Orient introduced the Swimmer line to offer robust durability without sacrificing elegant design. The AAA designation denoted a premium tier of quality and finishing within Orient's catalog. Today, these models are celebrated for their reliable engineering and the distinct, character-rich ways in which they gracefully age.
/ Second Vintage
SKU: ORI-OSA-0001

























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Orient - Calendar Auto Orient Swimmer AAA - No reserve price - T 122903 - Men - 1960-1969
Orient
Vendu pour
€174
Vendu le 9 avr. 2026
30 bids85 watching
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