Wyler Vetta ‘Tribute To Ermetico’ WV0340 - Limited Edition 100 Pieces - Full Set

Few names in watchmaking embody such a distinctive blend of Swiss technical ingenuity and Italian design sensibility as Wyler Vetta. Founded in 1924, the Maison built its reputation on the pursuit of precision, reliability and mechanical innovation, establishing a particularly strong identity through its pioneering approach to shock resistance and water protection. Among the most significant creations in its historical catalogue was the Ermetico, a chronograph introduced during the 1940s and recognised as one of the early waterproof chronographs of its era. Designed at a time when protecting a mechanical movement from moisture and external elements remained a major technical challenge, the Ermetico represented an important chapter in the evolution of the modern wristwatch.

The Tribute to Ermetico reference WV0340 was introduced in 2024 to commemorate the centenary of Wyler Vetta, celebrating one hundred years since the production of the brand’s first watch in 1924. Limited to just 100 individually numbered examples, this commemorative edition represents far more than a simple exercise in vintage-inspired design. It revisits a defining model from the Maison’s past, translating its distinctive character into a contemporary mechanical chronograph while preserving the proportions, dial architecture and understated functionality that made the original Ermetico so compelling. The result is a timepiece that establishes a tangible connection between the brand’s historical achievements and its modern watchmaking identity.

The 38mm case is crafted from satin-finished 316L stainless steel, a material chosen for its durability and understated appearance. Its carefully considered proportions, combined with a domed sapphire crystal featuring anti-reflective treatment, evoke the character of mid-century chronographs while meeting contemporary expectations of wearability and robustness. The matte silver dial, enhanced by a subtle vintage-inspired patina, is particularly effective in recreating the atmosphere of historical examples. Leaf-shaped hands and a combination of Arabic numerals and baton indexes provide a distinctive period aesthetic, while the two-register configuration preserves the functional clarity of a traditional chronograph. The small seconds subdial is positioned at 9 o’clock, opposite the 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock, with tachymeter and telemeter scales adding both visual depth and practical functionality. Every element contributes to a balanced composition that favours legibility, character and historical authenticity over unnecessary ornamentation.

Of particular interest to collectors is the movement housed within the watch. The Tribute to Ermetico is powered by the manually wound Armand Nicolet N6734 calibre, based on a historical movement dating from the 1970s and extensively reworked for Wyler Vetta. Rather than employing a contemporary mass-produced chronograph calibre, the Maison chose to incorporate an existing mechanical architecture with its own horological heritage, reinforcing the watch’s connection to the golden age of traditional chronograph manufacturing. Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour and offering a power reserve of approximately 42 hours, the movement can be admired through the screw-down sapphire display caseback. This detail provides an additional dimension to the watch, allowing the mechanical construction to become an integral part of its appeal. Water-resistant to 100 metres, the stainless steel case further reflects the practical spirit of the historical Ermetico, translating its original emphasis on protection and reliability into a contemporary context.

The present example is preserved in virtually New Old Stock condition and has reportedly never been worn. Its essentially unused state is particularly noteworthy for a commemorative edition produced in such limited numbers, offering collectors the opportunity to acquire an example that remains exceptionally close to its original presentation. The combination of its vintage-inspired silver dial, carefully finished stainless steel case and historically significant mechanical movement makes this an especially appealing representative of Wyler Vetta’s centenary collection.

The watch is accompanied by its complete original set, comprising the presentation box, outer box, warranty documentation, warranty holder and Certificate of Origin. The Italian warranty is dated December 2024, providing a documented reference point for its sale and completing an exceptionally attractive presentation. The presence of the full accompanying set, together with the virtually unworn condition, further enhances the desirability of this limited-edition example.

Combining the historical significance of the original Ermetico, the mechanical appeal of a manually wound chronograph movement from the 1970s and the exclusivity of a 100-piece centenary edition, the Wyler Vetta Tribute to Ermetico reference WV0340 stands as a meaningful tribute to the Maison’s enduring watchmaking heritage. Its thoughtful reinterpretation of a pioneering historical design, distinctive vintage character and exceptionally preserved condition distinguish this example as a compelling proposition for collectors who appreciate the continuity of traditional mechanical watchmaking and the enduring appeal of historically inspired limited editions.