A little help on a Zodiac

[paddy_2009]

Hello all,
I was wondering if anyone can help me.

My great uncle gave this watch to me years ago, I've never used it and just left it in a box.
Does anyone know if it's worth anything?

Thanks
Paddy

[Butch]

That is a Astrographic, big in the 70's. Worth a couple hundred, more if in great shape as you have the band. They were designed to be serviced every 3-5 years though so based on what you say, you should get that done.

[reydelaplaya]

Though by no means am I as qualified as Butch, but I think that might be an Orbiter Automatic.  As an owner of a similar Orbiter, I see the design difference being the date window between it and the Astrographic.  Having browsed through the Astrographic gallery here, all of the date windows are at 12 except one at 6, whereas the date window of the Orbiters pictured, as well as my own, is at 3.

Either way, you have a very nice watch - have it serviced and hang on to it.

I've included a photo of mine as an additional reference.  Please overlook the scratches in the glass crystal, as I have yet to find a replacement or someone who can polish them out.

[Sea Wolf]

Another thought... The date window placement can indicate a women's watch on the Astrographics.

[Butch]

Rey is correct! That is an Orbiter from the late 1960s. Another difference between the Astrographic and the Orbiter is that the Orbiter is pre-SST so does not have the high beat movement.

Sorry, I was in a hurry and did not OPEN up the picture to see the difference the first time.

bd

[paddy_2009]

Thanks you all for your replies...

Really helps.

It seems to have the heatbeat motion. As when I place it on my wrist, it starts to tick..

Reason I've been looking into how much it's worth is looking to raise some cash.
If I were to sell it, what price would I be looking for? Also where should I look to sell it? I was thinking ebay...

Paddy

[jon p]

  sometimes the crystal scratches can be polished out. check ebay-every once in a while i see crystals.if the scratches are minor try some MOTHERS mag wheel polish--auto section at wally world--i have had good results with plastic crystals and some glass ones with minor marks. if they are DEEP on glass nothing will fix them! polish works excellent on stainless steel-just DO NOT use on PLATED surface-it WILL remove the gold etc plate!!  JON