Origins and period
Grenchen, Switzerland
Founded 1856
Abbady Watches A–Z archive · Research page
Eterna
This page has been created in the permanent archive and is ready for verified history, watch photographs, model identification, and collector information.
Abbady photographic archive
Eterna photographs
Archive photographs are captioned only from details visible in the image. Exact references and production dates remain open until case, movement, and serial markings can be compared.
Eterna in watchmaking
Josef Girard and Urs Schild founded the enterprise that became Eterna, a company important both as a watch brand and in the development of movement manufacturing.
Landmark dates
- Founding and first production
- Important movement or model launch
- Expansion, merger, revival, or modern milestone
Known for
The Eterna-Matic rotor system, mechanical innovation, and the historical roots of ETA.
Movements and innovation
Calibres, escapements, case construction, water resistance, electronic or quartz development, manufacturing methods, patents, and specialist suppliers.
Identification checklist
- Reference and serial numbers
- Movement calibre and jewel count
- Case material and dimensions
- Dial, hands, crown, crystal, bracelet, and inscriptions
Preservation guidance
Service considerations, originality, replacement parts, water-resistance assumptions, safe storage, and details that should be documented before restoration.
References and credits
Official manufacturer history, museum or archive sources, technical sheets, books, catalogues, advertisements, image credits, and provenance notes.