Introduction
Produced during the 1970s, the Wittnauer ref. 246T “Scuba Roulette” represents one of the boldest and most charismatic chronographs produced by the brand during the golden age of sports watch design. Combining oversized proportions with vivid color accents and serious tool-watch functionality, the model perfectly reflects the adventurous aesthetic language that emerged during the era. Powered by the legendary Valjoux 72 manual-wind chronograph movement, the same calibre used in many of the period’s most celebrated chronographs, the ref. 246T paired robust mechanics with highly distinctive styling. The watch earned its “Scuba Roulette” nickname from its unusual multicolored rotating bezel, whose alternating segments resemble a roulette wheel and give the watch an unmistakable visual identity. Today, the model has become an increasingly collectible vintage chronograph, particularly when preserved with its original bracelet and presentation box.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch and box set
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Wittnauer
Dimensions
43mm
Model
Roulette Bezel Chronograph
Movement
Manual-wind Valjoux 72
Reference
246T
Bracelet
Signed JB Champion bracelet with Wittnauer clasp dated 7/70
Year
1970s
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainess steel
Included
Inner and outer boxes
Dial Color
Brown tropical dial
THE DIAL
The dial has developed a rich tropical brown coloration that contrasts beautifully against the bright detailing of the chronograph layout. Featuring luminous hour markers, contrasting chronograph registers, and bold white printing, the display perfectly captures the colorful and highly expressive sporting aesthetic of early-1970s chronographs.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 43mm stainless steel case retains its original sunburst brushing and is fitted with the model’s distinctive multicolored acrylic “roulette” bezel, one of the defining visual elements behind the watch’s collector nickname. The oversized case proportions retains its signed crown and period JB Champion bracelet.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case retains its sunburst finish to the front and has scratches and small nicks consistent with age. The case back shows light scratches. The bezel is excellent, with a reasonably clean insert showing a couple of scratches near 55. The dial is near mint and has developed a pleasing tropical brown hue with vibrant orange hour markers. The hands are clean, while the orange chronograph hand has lost some of its finish. The Wittnauer-signed crown remains excellent. The watch is fitted with a steel five-link JB-Champion bracelet with Wittnauer clasp, showing surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet is fitted with 20 links and fits approximately a 7 1/2” wrist. Comes with original inner and outer boxes.
Our Perspective
This Wittnauer “Scuba Roullete” is a visual masterpiece of 1970s extravagance. With seven different surface colors, this unusual watch certainly lets you know what time it is.
Patrick Parrish
Collector
