A recessed slot tucked underneath the box hides Eterna’s instruction manual (available in English, French and German) and a separate one that will log your watch’s service throughout its lifetime. The guys at Eterna made it a point to bring in their brightest marketing minds in an effort to come up with a nifty name for this particular log, and after months of collaborating, they called this manual…. (wait for it)… your “Service Passport.” Brilliant! The presentation is simple yet elegant and, judging by the box alone, you’ll feel you’ve won the watch lottery.
The dial on this particular light monotone model is semi-gloss, or so it appears to me, with a flat off centered text. The flat text is in direct contrast to the KonTiki’s raised high polish rhodium plated hour markers, which refracts light in the most beautiful of ways. Three chrono circles are located, near the six, nine and twelve on this model, measuring time intervals to 11 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. Some enthusiasts love the chrono models for their functionality while trying not to burn a brisket on their pit, but I simply love it for the look.
One of the most distinct features of the KonTiki are four raised Super-Luminova triangles found hovering over the three, six, nine and twelve o’clock positions. Friends of mine, also big time watch enthusiast, seem to think that it clutters the dial a bit. My opinion couldn’t be farther from theirs, as I think it adds visual dimension to the dial. And hell, who doesn’t like triangles?
You’ll find the date at the four position, and it’s a brighter shade of white versus the dial with black numbers. “Swiss Made” can be found on either side of the 6 o’clock position, which indicates the watch’s birthplace.
This sporty, stainless steel case comes in at 43mm x 15.8 x 47mm and just feels freaking solid. The case shares many similarities between the Omega AquaTerra and the Rolex Milgauss, two of my personal favorites, aesthetically, while having a unique personality of its own, much like me (chunky, yet extremely sexy!). Two pushers are added to this chrono model, since it would be darn hard to use this watch without them. Yet again, another stroke of brilliance by Eterna!
The watch is rated at a very “comfy-for-a-non-diver watch” to 200m/ 660ft.
The crystal is made of sapphire, and it is coated with anti-reflective materials, which makes the time easily read from all angles. It’s so clear, it lends to the belief that there’s not even a crystal on it.
10 comments
Very nice watch and well-written review. I just can’t decide if I like the white or black dial the most.
Impressive stats on a brand that does not get much love. Good information and fantastic pictures. Hope to see more
What a remarkable piece of craftsmanship. I’ve always been fond of the light colored faces since it feels it adds a bit of class. The story behind the name, along with the details in the article, would make me proud to wear such a beautifully designed timepiece. Well written review!
What a beautiful piece! Thanks for the detailed review. It has opened up my mind to yet another fine offering from a brand that I really never paid that much attention to.
Great informative review of the brand and the KonTiki Auto Chronograph. A real beauty that looks to be built well. I’ll definitely keep Eterna on the radar for future watch purchases. Look forward to reading more of your reviews.
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL WHO HAVE COMMENTED AND PROVIDED FEEDBACK.
I’ve always liked the looks of the Eterna KonTiki models and enjoyed this excellent review. I am likely to pick up a three-hand version in the coming months. Thanks to the author for the information and outstanding photos!
Amazing watch and great review!
Great watch, I am amazed. I bet the picture doesn’t do it any justice. Thanks for the review!
Shakd
Hei, excellenti review, this KonTiki is very nice watch, I just bought same watch :-)