What do Amelia Earhart, Howard Hughes and the National Broadcasting Company all have in common? Believe it or not, the answer is Wittnauer watches and timepieces. For over 100 years, these incredibly elegant watches have not only been innovators in their industry, but also they have been at the forefront of United States history. The history of A. Wittnauer Company, and their commitment to producing a quality product, adds to the beauty of their timepieces and makes them essential for anyone desiring fine Swiss watches at an affordable price.
Although the A. Wittnauer Company wasn't formally established until 1890, Albert Wittnauer and his brothers began operations nearly 20 years before that date. The company headquarters were in New York, in the heart of the jewelry and watch making regions, but the timepieces were made in Geneva, Switzerland. In the early days, employees included H.A. Lungrin, who developed a popular chronograph system; Ferdinand Haschka, who would later become the head watchmaker for Tiffany & Co.; and Charles Johns, creator of the perpetual calendar chronometer that was displayed at the World's Fair in 1939. With such an esteemed and highly capable staff, it is no surprise that Wittnauer watches and timepieces quickly became the favorites of anyone desiring accurate, affordable, and attractive timepieces.
Through the years, Wittnauer watches, timepieces and navigational instruments became the preferred equipment of explorers, aviators and the U.S. military. Amelia Earhart, Clarence D. Chamberlain and Charles A. Levine, Wiley Post, and Howard Hughes all set flight records using those timepieces as part of their essential equipment during flight. The U.S. military used the watches and navigational instruments, and the watches became the preferred timepieces for soldiers in both World Wars. During World War II, watchmakers fleeing Europe were given jobs helping make laboratory timers, compasses and other products as part of the war effort. After the war, returning veterans (even those with disabilities) were given positions as apprentices and watchmakers.
Of course, the beauty and accuracy of Wittnauer watches and timepieces made them appeal to more than just explorers, aviators and soldiers. When the National Broadcasting Company went on the air as the first radio network in the United States, they relied on the famous accuracy for timing their broadcasts. Athletes valued their accuracy and moisture resistance during competitive events, allowing the timepieces the opportunity to serve as official timers for the U.S. Olympic Committee.
Now a part of the Bulova Corporation, Wittnauer watches remain true to their original dedication to producing quality timepieces at an affordable price. To meet the needs of customers, they have expanded the product line to include both elegant dress styles and sleek, contemporary looks. The company's Quality Pledge and their "buckle-to-buckle" warranty are only part of the assurance to customers that every watch will duplicate the accuracy and superior character that has kept the A. Wittnauer Company at the forefront of timekeeping throughout their history. Owning one of these beautiful timepieces serves not only as a sign of incredible taste, but also as a link to the history of the country in which they chose to make their headquarters.
