GUBELIN 1968 Certina Argonaut Vintage Square-Dial Retro Wristwatch In Steel With Calendar
Argonaut wrist-watch cuff designed Certina for Gübelin.
An exceptionally attractive vintage Certina Argonaut 220, retailed by the prestigious Swiss jewelry and watch house of Gübelin, dating to the late 1960s or early 1970s. This handsome retro-modernist timepiece features a distinctive cushion-shaped case, beautifully crafted in solid stainless steel with a sophisticated combination of polished and brushed finishes. The elegant round dial is presented in a rich, deep blue, complemented by contrasting white hands and applied silver-tone baton hour markers. Particularly noteworthy, the dial is signed Gübelin, while the winding crown features the distinctive Certina emblem, making this a particularly desirable retailer-signed example. The watch is fitted with a new dark-blue crocodile leather strap, which beautifully complements the dial and enhances its classic appearance. It features an analog display and is identified by reference 5601-220, with the case number 7352328. The Certina Argonaut collection, introduced in the late 1960s, became one of the brand's most recognizable watch families, reflecting the bold, functional elegance of the period. Its name, inspired by the legendary Greek heroes who sailed aboard the Argo, evokes a spirit of adventure and exploration.
Preserved in impeccable condition, with no visible dents and no evidence of restoration, this remarkable example retains its original character and vintage appeal. Examples bearing the prestigious Gübelin signature are seldom encountered, adding an extra dimension of exclusivity and collectibility. A superb collector's wristwatch and a timeless expression of late-1960s Swiss design, combining Certina's respected watchmaking heritage with the distinguished retail tradition of Gübelin. An elegant classic with outstanding eye appeal.
Gübelin
The company was founded in 1854 when Mauritz Breitschmid opened a watchmaker's shop on the Pfistergasse in Lucerne. a few years later, in 1861, Eduard Jakob Gübelin was born in eastern Switzerland. he subsequently moved to Lucerne and was apprenticed to the watchmaker Mauritz Breitschmid. The year 1886 marked a special occasion in the young watchmaker's life as Eduard Jakob Gübelin married bertha Sophia Breitschmid, the daughter of his old master. In the same year, the two men became business partners, managing the growing company together. In the 1920s Gübelin opened its own jewelry atelier and at the same time set up a small gemological laboratory so that it could test – and be sure of the authenticity – of the stones its jewelers used. It also continued making and repairing fine watches for a discerning clientele, developing a reputation that soon reached throughout Europe and overseas. Since 1854, the house of Gübelin has always been in the hands of the family and led by a family member throughout time the Gübelin family carefully nurtured its traditions. It kept the company’s core values alive and passed them on to the next generation which contributed to the success and growth of the Swiss house.
Certina
This is a historic Swiss watchmaking brand renowned for its rugged, sporty, and reliable timepieces. Its story spans over 135 years of engineering, innovation, and outdoor exploration. Foundations & Early Years (1888–1930s) Inception: Founded in 1888 by brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth in Grenchen (Granges), Switzerland. They originally opened a movement and watch-parts factory. Grana Era: By 1906, the brothers expanded into full watch manufacturing, naming their pieces Grana (derived from Granacus, the Latin name for Grenchen). The Certina Name: The brand name "Certina", derived from the Latin word certus (meaning "sure" or "reliable"), was first registered in 1939 and later adopted as the sole brand name.
Country: Luzern, Switzerland.
Period: Modernism, 1960-1970
Manufacturer: Certina.
Model: Argonaut 220 – Reference 5801 220, with calendar.
Retailer: Gübelin.
Specifications: Mechanical hand winding movement, calibre 25-66, 17 jewels, numeric date-window, with dark-blue round dial, analog with silvered batons, with white enameled hours-minutes-seconds hands and acrylic round glass. Signed "Gübelin Swiss Made".
Weight: 51.95 Grams, (33.30 Dwt).
Size: Band is 8 Inches (20 Cm).
Measurements: Case lug to lug is 39 mm by 32.5 mm (1.54 x 1.27 Inches), 35 mm including crown
Hallmarks: Stamped with Swiss marks, the maker's mark for Certina, the retailer logo for Gübelin, the reference numbers, the serial numbers and signed in as follows, "GUBELIN SWISS MADE 5601-220 / 7352328".
Collateral: This Gübelin Certina-Argonaut wrist-watch is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this Gübelin Certina-Argonaut wrist-watch is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage. Will be good to service and clean movement. This watch has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: B110826SENH/.8769
