Released to the public in 1947 and named after the sound it makes, the Vulcain Cricket is one of the most brand-defining watches of the modern era. Inspired by previous failures to create an alarm wrist watch, Robert Ditisheim collaborated with numerous engineers, watchmakers and physicists from 1942 to 1947 to achieve the supposedly unachievable. To ensure the Cricket’s accuracy, two separate barrels were used to store energy, one for the movement and one for the alarm – this ensured the alarm didn’t use power from the watch and would last 25 seconds if fully wound. This came at a small price though as it meant the crown had to be rotated anti-clockwise to wind the alarm, thus meaning the time could only be set forward. Previous acoustical issues were solved by using a hammer that would strike a membrane and pin that would be connected to the case back. Sound would then resonate through another a chamber constructed by another caseback with perforations in it, not unlike a cello. The Cricket was such a significant success it won the International Chronometry Competition in 1948. The Cricket is also famed for being the watch of choice for U.S. presidents. It was first worn by Harry Truman after he was gifted a 14k gold version in 1953. Eisenhower also wore a Cricket, albeit he is commonly associated with his Rolex Day-Date. Nixon wore one too after being gifted one in 1955. Lyndon Johnson may have been the Cricket’s biggest advocate, however, with him buying 200 units to be gifted to others during his term. Launched in 1961, the Cricket Nautical was an aquatic alarm watch that was loud enough, and water resistant enough, to be used by divers who needed their watch to alert them of when they needed to start their ascent. Measuring 42mm in diameter and boasting a stainless steel case, the Cricket Nautical features a black dial with a decompression scale built into it, to allow the diver to rest easy safe in the knowledge that they can just wait for their watch to alert them of when they need to head to the surface.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case appears well worn, with visible marks and small dings along the bezel and case. Caseback engravings are mostly visible, with some wear on the outer edge of text. The crystal is covered wtih scratches and crazing, and there is a crack visible along the edge between 4 and 5 o'clock. The patent number is partially worn out, and there is some minor suface pitting evident. The two piece dial is excellent, with only minor signs of aging. The luminous has aged to a medium cream tone and is intact. The hands are slightly lighter in tone.

An iconic variant of one of diving's most important inventions, the Cricket Nautical represents a very real advancement in the underwater arena, an advancement that we can now take for granted thanks to modern technology.