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Lot #5128

Pulsar Time Computer Calculator 18K YG Box and Papers

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Introduction

Few watches capture the optimism and technological ambition of the 1970s quite like the Pulsar Time Computer Calculator. Introduced in 1975, it was the world's first commercially available wristwatch with an integrated calculator, arriving at a time when electronic calculators themselves were still considered cutting-edge technology. Developed by Pulsar, the pioneering electronic watch division of Hamilton, the model demonstrated just how rapidly digital watchmaking was advancing during the quartz revolution. Combining a six-digit LED display with a twelve-digit calculator capable of performing the four basic arithmetic functions, it represented an extraordinary feat of miniaturisation that seemed almost unimaginable at the time.

Offered here is the exceptionally rare 18K yellow gold version, dating to approximately 1976. Produced in very limited numbers, it sat at the very top of the Pulsar catalogue and originally retailed for an astonishing 8,600 Swiss Francs, making it one of the most expensive electronic wristwatches available. Complete with its original fitted presentation box, guarantee, instruction manual and the correct stylus pen required to operate the calculator, this remarkable survivor stands as one of the defining technological icons of the digital watch era.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Box, guarantee, booklets and stylus

Est. value range

$15,000 – $25,000

The Details

Brand

Pulsar

Dimensions

36.5mm x 40.5mm

Model

Time Computer Calculator

Movement

Quartz LED calculator module

Reference

N/A

Bracelet

18K yellow gold JB Champion bracelet

Year

Circa 1976

Condition

Excellent

Material

18K yellow gold

Included

Box, guarantee, booklets and stylus

Dial Color

LED digital display

THE DISPLAY

THE DISPLAY

The bright red LED display offers six-digit time readout while concealing an integrated twelve-digit calculator beneath its keypad. Operated using the supplied stylus pen, the watch displays the time, month and date while performing the four fundamental arithmetic functions, making it one of the most technologically ambitious wristwatches ever produced.

THE CONSTRUCTION

THE CONSTRUCTION

Crafted entirely in 18K yellow gold, the substantial cushion-shaped case is paired with its original JB Champion integrated bracelet, reinforcing the luxurious positioning of what was once the flagship model in the Pulsar collection. The combination of precious metal construction and pioneering electronics perfectly encapsulates the futuristic optimism of the 1970s.

THE MOVEMENT

THE MOVEMENT
At the heart of the watch is one of the most sophisticated electronic modules of its era. Powered by four button-cell batteries, the quartz movement used a crystal oscillator housed within a sealed metal can to deliver exceptional accuracy of around 60 seconds per year. Regulation could be fine-tuned via an integrated trimmer, while the densely packed circuitry, equivalent to approximately 4,500 transistors, powered not only the LED time display, but also the world's first commercially available wristwatch calculator.

Condition

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows light surface scratches and small marks. The case back retains well-defined stamps and engravings, with a few light surface marks. The calculator pushers show some light marks, with most of the black enamel remaining intact. There are signs of wear to the screw heads. It is fitted with an integrated yellow gold bracelet showing light surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 21 links, 4 of which are removable, and fits approximately a 7” wrist. Comes with the original box, guarantee, instruction booklet, calculator card, stylus, and additional paperwork.

Our Perspective

Few watches better represent the technological revolution of the 1970s than the Pulsar Time Computer Calculator. Combining pioneering electronic engineering with solid 18K yellow gold construction, it was an uncompromising statement of innovation and luxury. Complete examples with their original bracelet, stylus, paperwork and retailer documentation are exceptionally scarce, making this one of the finest opportunities to acquire a true milestone in the history of digital watchmaking.

Eric Ku

Co-founder