ETERNA MATIC KONTIKI 1856, AUTOMATIC

Eterna watches trace their origins back to 1856 in Grenchen, Switzerland, where Josef Girard and Urs Schild founded a small watchmaking workshop. Initially, the brand specialized in crafting components and movements, focusing on precision and reliability. Over time, this dedication to quality established Eterna as a prominent name in the Swiss watch industry.

Birth of Eterna Matic

In 1948, Eterna introduced a groundbreaking innovation with the launch of the Eterna Matic, the first automatic movement with a ball-bearing system. This design, incorporating five miniature ball bearings, reduced rotor friction and enhanced the watch’s precision and durability. This technical advance marked a pivotal moment in automatic watchmaking and solidified Eterna’s reputation for innovation.

Recognition and global expansion

The success of the ball-bearing system significantly boosted Eterna’s prestige:

• The brand adopted five balls as part of its logo, symbolizing this unique innovation.
• Eterna gained worldwide recognition during the 1950s and 1960s, as its automatic watches became renowned for their precision and advanced engineering. This period cemented its place as a leading name in high-quality Swiss watchmaking.

Innovation and watchmaking legacy

Over the years, Eterna has continued refining its mechanisms and launching innovative models. Among its most iconic collections is the KonTiki line, inspired by Thor Heyerdahl’s famous expedition, combining cutting-edge technology with timeless Swiss precision.

Today, Eterna remains a symbol of excellence and innovation in automatic watchmaking, maintaining its legacy of precision and superior craftsmanship.

TEMPPUS. All rights reserved.