Vintage Towncraft 20 ATM Skin Diver Watch withAll SS Case, Runs FOR PARTS/REPAIR
The seconds hand will move for several seconds at a time after the watch has been gently shaken and or spun face down on a flat surface, the crown/stem is missing. Given these issues and considering the movement's unknown service history a complete overhaul is required. This seldom seen vintage 1970's Towncraft (made for JC Penney) has a glossy black dial that under the heavily damaged crystal appears to be in near pristine condition. The lume on the dial and hands, which remains fully intact and emits a quick burst glow after being exposed to bright light, has aged gracefully. The faded black fat font bezel, which shows wear and does not rotate likely due to gunk buildup underneath, presents nicely.
The all stainless steel case shows honest wear with signs of oxidation. The outer edge of the case back is stamped "ALL STAINLESS STEEL AUTO MATIC SKIN DIVER" with "TESTED 20 ATM" and "1554" stamped in the center. The crystal needs to be replaced. While I normally show pictures of the movements of watches that I put up for sale, the case back on this one is torqued too tight for me to remove. The 25 jewels automatic movement will run for several seconds at a time after the watch has been gently shaken and or spun face down on a soft, flat surface. The date and time can't be set as the crown/stem is missing. This watch measures approximately 37 mm excluding the crown, approximately 40 mm including the tube and approximately 19 mm between the lugs. Case thickness, measured from the bottom of the case back to the top of the bezel, is approximately 9 mm. Including the crystal case thickness measures approximately 11 mm.Given that the seconds hand will move for only several seconds at a time, that the crown/stem is missing and considering the movement's unknown service history a complete overhaul is required. As such there are no warranties, express or implied, attached with the sale of this watch. Vintage means old and while my personal belief is that old school means better quality and workmanship, things can and do go wrong from time to time.
For this watch that time is now. Any servicing costs going forward are your responsibility. And please study the 12 high magnification pictures carefully as they are part of the description and serve as an accurate representation of the condition of this watch.