JUVENIA Sextant Ref. 9692 34mm 1990s Reissue Automatic Serviced USED

Juvenia is a prestigious watch manufacturer founded in Switzerland in 1860. Its unique design sense has made it a singular presence in watchmaking history. The model shown here is the "Sextant" Ref. 9692, a 1990s reissue of a masterpiece from the company's golden age in the 1940s.

Design Reproducing the "Sextant" Navigational Instrument on the Wrist

The model name "Sextant" refers to the "sextant," a crucial navigational instrument that supported humankind's mastery of the seas during the Age of Discovery. Its etymology comes from the Latin word "sextans," meaning "one-sixth," and is derived from the instrument's shape, which is a sector of a circle equal to one-sixth (60 degrees) of the circumference.

Juvenia masterfully elevated the elements of this instrument, originally designed to measure the angle (angular distance) between a celestial body and the horizon to determine the current latitude, into a watch design in the 1940s.

The greatest appeal of the Sextant lies in its unique style, which ingeniously incorporates the elements of navigational instruments—a protractor, a ruler, and a compass—into the world of a wristwatch.

Particularly noteworthy is its meticulously calculated design. In Ref. 9692, the largest area, the "protractor," is adopted for the hour hand, which completes one rotation in 12 hours. If this were placed on the minute hand, it would move across the dial at a fast pace, completing one rotation per hour, which would compromise legibility and a sense of calm. The fact that Juvenia entrusted this design to the leisurely ticking hour hand reveals its deep commitment to "practicality and aesthetics."

This intellectual playfulness, while inheriting the lineage of the 1940s original (ruler, protractor, compass needle), evolves into a more sophisticated dress watch in Ref. 9692 with the addition of stylish "magnetic needles (compass needles)" for the minute and second hands.

When actor Johnny Depp famously wore a 1960s vintage Sextant and appeared on the cover of Esquire (US edition, January 2008), this "unconventional and distinctive style" was globally re-evaluated.

*It is still a legendary topic among international collectors. If you search for "Johnny Depp Esquire Juvenia" online, you can immediately see the stylish cover from that time.

Interestingly, the name "Sextant" was not inscribed on the dial from its birth in the 1940s until the 1960s model worn by Depp. It was only with this 1990s reissue that the beautiful script logo was added at the 6 o'clock position on the dial. This more clearly expresses its legendary identity, allowing you to enjoy the sophisticated design unique to the reissued version.

High Practical Specifications as a Neo-Vintage Piece

For its reissue in the 1990s, this item significantly enhanced modern practicality while maintaining its vintage appearance. Firstly, the crystal adopted sapphire crystal glass, a standard specification for luxury watches, offering the significant advantage of being scratch-resistant for daily use.

At its heart, it is equipped with a reliable ETA 2892A2-based automatic movement (Cal. 15519). Through the exhibition case back, you can admire the delicate movement of the finely finished mechanism. Since it is a movement with excellent maintainability, even those new to vintage watches can enjoy it with peace of mind.

Please note that this model had a water resistance of 3 ATM (daily life water resistance) when new. While it boasts high practical features as a modern neo-vintage item, such as a "scratch-resistant crystal" and "stable accuracy," avoiding use around water is recommended to ensure long-term enjoyment of this era's masterpiece. We hope you will enjoy the unique moments that come with owning a vintage watch, such as being a little careful on rainy days or when washing your hands.

Exquisite Size Balance Inheriting the Original

Furthermore, its exquisite size balance is also a charm. The current model "SEXTANT III (model number: SXA2.4.594.21)" has a larger case diameter of approximately 40mm and a price of $5,050.00 (equivalent to approximately 750,000 to 800,000 JPY or more), making it a very high-end presence.

In contrast, this 90s model maintains a 34mm diameter close to the original, and combined with the slimmed-down needle design, it fits surprisingly smartly under shirt cuffs or jacket sleeves. You can enjoy the design of a historic masterpiece, which served as the design source for current products, in a more accessible size for daily use. This piece is packed with the true charm of neo-vintage.

*Note: Although it was once referred to as "Tekstant," it is now recognized as "Sextant," referring to its original etymology, on official websites and elsewhere.

Condition

This watch has been overhauled.

The case is in good condition with minor scratches from use. The dial also shows no noticeable deterioration, maintaining a clean impression that belies its age.
The crystal is made of sapphire crystal, free of scratches, and maintains a clear view.

The strap is a new Morellato calf leather strap. It has been finished in a classic style that complements the design of this model.

No accessories are included. Only the watch body will be delivered.

As a USED item, there is no waterproof guarantee.
While it had 3 ATM water resistance when new, please use it with care around water.
Also, as it is a precision instrument, please be very careful about strong impacts and magnetism (from smartphones, PCs, speaker magnets, etc.).

Operation Instructions

Manual Winding: Rotate the crown upwards in the normal position

Time Setting: Pull the crown out two clicks and rotate it downwards

Date Quick Set: Pull the crown out one click and rotate it downwards