This Enicar Aqua Graph Reference 072/002 from the early 1960s is the highly sought-after and extremely rare early MK1 version. The watch ranks among the most striking sports chronographs of its era. Its design is exceptionally bold and unmistakable: the large stainless-steel case, broad black rotating bezel, vivid red inner ring, and distinctive orange accents create a combination that gives the Aqua Graph tremendous presence. At the same time, the design remains remarkably well balanced and, despite its uncompromising tool-watch character, never feels excessive.
The Aqua Graph was developed as a professional sports and diving chronograph, and its functional character is immediately apparent. The 40 mm stainless-steel case features prominent lugs, a black rotating bezel, and the characteristic red inner ring. Together with the large chronograph pushers, these elements give the watch an impressive wrist presence that still looks remarkably modern more than 60 years later.
Particularly beautiful is the original black dial with its three recessed chronograph registers. The applied hour markers and hands retain their original tritium luminous material, which has developed a warm cream-colored patina over the decades. One of the most characteristic details is the unusual shape of the hour and minute hands with their striking orange tips. Equally distinctive is the central lollipop chronograph seconds hand with its circular luminous element – an unmistakable feature of the early Aqua Graph and one of its most appealing design details today. Together, these elements give the dial its unique, instrument-like character.
Inside beats the legendary hand-wound Valjoux 72 with column-wheel control. The caliber ranks among the most celebrated classic chronograph movements ever produced and was used in various executions by manufacturers including Rolex, Heuer, and Breitling.
Another highlight of this example is the original Enicar-signed stainless-steel bracelet. It perfectly complements the characteristic 1960s appearance of the watch and makes the Aqua Graph an exceptionally harmonious package on the wrist.
With its Reference 072/002, early MK1 configuration, and Valjoux 72 movement, this Aqua Graph represents a particularly fascinating chapter in the history of Swiss sports watches. Even before professional chronographs became the icons we know today, Enicar was already combining a robust sports case, rotating bezel, and high-grade chronograph movement to create a distinctive and technically sophisticated tool watch. A charismatic vintage chronograph with tremendous presence and unmistakable Enicar DNA.
Condition Report
Dial: excellently preserved - small imperfection between 7 and 8 o'clock - original tritium luminous material in the hour markers and hands - signed "Enicar Aquagraph" and "Swiss Made".
Case: excellently preserved - lugs with intact edges and bevels - original winding crown with Enicar logo - clearly visible engravings on the case back - black rotating bezel with red inner ring in good condition and showing natural signs of wear.
Movement: hand-wound Valjoux 72 caliber - functioning perfectly in all respects - timegrapher readings: rate: -40 s/day, amplitude: 275°, beat error: 0.0 ms.
Bracelet: original stainless-steel bracelet - excellently preserved - Enicar logo on the clasp - bracelet length suitable for a wrist circumference of approximately 17.5 to 19.5 cm / 6.9 to 7.7 inches.
Serial number: 706xxx
Int.Exe.: 70205