Vulcain Cricket 100269B67.BAC313

Vulcain Cricket Classique Salmon Limited Edition 36mm

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. Offered here we have the Cricket Classique, a limited edition release of just 50 pieces that boasts a 36mm stainless steel case and a stunning salmon dial with Arabic numerals and hands that boast fauxtina to give the watch an aged look akin to how the original Cricket examples now look almost 70 years later. THE DIAL Boasting a salmon dial with fauxtina luminous hands and hour markers and two different scales along its chapter ring, the Cricket Classique features a display that sports a wonderful vintage-themed aesthetic that will be appealing to almost every watch collector. THE CONSTRUCTION Boasting a stainless steel 36mm construction, the Cricket Classique's pusher at 2 o'clock and large winding crown still allow it to fill the wrist how modern collectors love, but with a distinctly vintage appeal. 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. Please note that while the watch is ticking and running at time of cataloging, it is keeping poor time and a service is recommended.