In response to the growing use of electrical and magnetic fields, the Swiss watch industry, including Eberhard & Co., developed anti-magnetic watches. These watches used Faraday cages, named after the inventor, to shield the delicate mechanics from magnetic fields that could disrupt their function. The “Scientigraf” model, introduced in 1961, was an early example of this technology and it was reissued with modern advancements while keeping its core functionality – Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf Ref. 41043.02.
Eberhard & Co. is a distinguished Swiss watchmaking company with a rich heritage dating back to 1887. Founded by Georges-Lucien Eberhard in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, the brand has established itself as a symbol of excellence, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. Throughout its long history, Eberhard & Co. has remained committed to the core values of precision, reliability, and elegance. The company has earned a reputation for producing high-quality timepieces characterized by meticulous attention to detail and timeless aesthetics.
Originally intended for scientists and engineers working around those pesky magnets, the Scientigraf packed some serious anti-magnetic punch. This new iteration stays true to its roots, with a robust 41mm stainless steel case housing a movement encased in a soft iron cage. So, if you’re a scientist, engineer, or just someone who gets a little too close to their MRI machine, fear not, the Scientigraf has your back… literally.
The combination of brushed and polished finishes, along with a comfortable integrated bracelet, makes the Scientigraf not only beautiful but also comfortable to wear. The screw-in crown, embossed with the “E” logo, complements the clasp adorned with the “E” shield, showcasing the brand’s attention to detail.
The raised and highly polished bezel holds the slightly raised domed sapphire crystal for a touch of vintage feel, reminding me of vintage watches and their box crystal. The entire look touched the brand’s 1961 piece.
Aesthetics with a Twist
What truly sets the Scientigraf apart is its dial — a mesmerizing canvas where form meets function in sublime harmony. The matt finish offers a non-distracting background while the applied indices and sword hands, coated with orange Super-LumiNova (green emission), ensure legibility in any setting. The triangular indices with a nice play in setting enrich the dial’s symmetry — a testament to the brand’s commitment to both aesthetics and utility.
The Scientigraf has a unique vintage chic appearance with its orange touches and white printings. The 12, 3, 6 and 9, helped by an outer baton printed track ensure precise reading – as expected from a scientific-oriented piece. The name of the brand and the name of the watch are also printed in white at 12, respectively 6 o’clock.
A reliable workhorse
Powering the Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf is a Sellita SW300-1 automatic movement, a reliable workhorse that offers a decent 42-hour power reserve. It’s not the flashiest movement on the market, but it gets the job done consistently. What distances this watch from a large amount of competing vintage-looking watches featuring the same movement is the Faraday cage that protects the movement and its characteristics from electrical fields. This statement was engraved on the screw-in back.
Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf – the vintage look you need for the modern heavily loaded electrical environment
So, is the Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf a worthy addition to your wrist arsenal? If you’re looking for a historically significant, conversation-starting timepiece with robust anti-magnetic protection, then the answer is a resounding “Yes!”. However, if you’re in search of a modern look or crave the latest in watchmaking technology, there might be better options out there. But remember, the beauty of watches lies not just in their function, but also in their ability to tell a story. And the story of the Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf is one of innovation, resilience, and a touch of unconventional charm. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of fine timepieces, the Scientigraf is sure to captivate your heart and elevate your wrist game to new heights. Not only the looks department is where things are interesting and Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf is a conversation starter…
Eberhard & Co. Scientigraf 41043 Technical Specifications
Ref. 41043.02 – € 3.110,-
Movement:
- Calibre SW 300-1.
- Self-winding mechanism with ball bearing
- Stop second device
- 28’800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
- 25 jewels
- Typical power reserve: minimum 38 hours
- Hours, minutes, and a second hand in the centre.
Case
- Steel case with polished satin finishes.
- Positioned inside the case is a metal cage specifically designed to protect the watch’s mechanical movement from magnetic field interference.
- Case diameter: 41.00 mm
- Case thickness: 11.20 mm
- Interhorn: 20.00 mm
- Caseback: Screwed-in steel caseback, customised with the 1961 design inspired by magnetic fields with the letter ‘E’ in the centre.
- Water-resistance: 100 m
- Bezel: Polished steel bezel.
- Crown: Screw-down water-resistant crown, customised with the letter ‘E’.
- Glass: domed sapphire glass with anti-reflective treatment on the inner surface.
Dial
- Mat black, galbé. White Arabic numerals 3/6/9/12 and triangular indices with orange luminescence.
- Hands: Orange luminescence, depending on the dial version.
- The hour hand features the original triangular tip; the minute hand is baton style.
- Central second hand with luminescent circular area.
Bracelet
- Steel Chassis® bracelet with steel deployment clasp or the two-button clasp