ARP Deluxe Automatic 25 Jewels 'Cushion Case' Date
Sports/everyday tool watch · ARP (Assembleur de Résonance et de Précision); a French 'Etablisseur' or private label brand that assembled Swiss components for the regional European market.
Period: Modernist/Tool Watch era (late 1960s to early 1970s); characterized by the 'Cushion' or 'Tonnea'u case shape and funky blue gradient dial typical of the era.
Type
Sports/everyday tool watch
Brand
ARP (Assembleur de Résonance et de Précision); a French 'Etablisseur' or private label brand that assembled Swiss components for the regional European market.
Movement
Automatic/self-winding mechanical movement, 25 jewels, likely an outsourced Swiss movement such as an ETA 2472 or similar A. Schild (AS) caliber common to French/Swiss assembly brands of the period.
Dimensions
Case diameter: 36mm-38mm; Thickness: 12mm; Lug-to-lug: 42mm; Lug width: 18mm or 20mm. It wears larger due to the square-like cushion proportions.
Description
This ARP Deluxe is a quintessential 'hidden gem' of the 1970s. It features a bold, masculine cushion case and a striking blue dial that captures the experimental design language of the pre-quartz era. The watch displays a rugged architectural presence on the wrist.
Key Features
Cushion-shaped stainless steel case; 25-jewel automatic movement; unique 'window' style vintage steel bracelet; gradient blue dial with oversized indices.
Dial Description
Deep blue sunburst dial with a vertical gradient; applied block indices with luminous fill; thick steel baton hands with white/luminous centers; date window at 3 o'clock with a white frame.
Case Material
Stainless steel case featuring a heavy sunburst brushed finish on the top surface and polished sides.
Crystal Type
Acrylic/Plexiglass (highly domed). Visible surface scratches consistent with vintage use.
Bezel Details
Integrated fixed steel bezel, part of the cushion case structure, with radial brushing.
Crown & Pushers
Stainless steel push-pull crown at 3 o'clock; unsigned and relatively low-profile.
Bracelet or Strap
Vintage 'H-Link' or rally-style integrated-look stainless steel bracelet with large cut-out 'windows' near the lugs, typical of 1970s sport styles.
Caseback Details
Likely a screw-down solid stainless steel caseback. Markings generally include 'Water Resistant', 'Antimagnetic', and 'Stainless Steel'.
Movement Type
Automatic/self-winding mechanical movement, 25 jewels, likely an outsourced Swiss movement such as an ETA 2472 or similar A. Schild (AS) caliber common to French/Swiss assembly brands of the period.
Water Resistance
Originally rated for 3-5 ATM (30-50m), but should be considered 'not water resistant' today due to age and gasket perishability.
Origin & Provenance
French assembly with Swiss-made movement parts. France (likely Morteau or Besançon region) manufacturer.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–1975 based on the case shape, dial typeface, and '25 Rubis' (Jewels) designation.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Space Age' design movement in horology where traditional round dress watches were replaced by bold, geometric, and experimental steel shapes.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. The case shows honest wear with softening of the brushed edges. The acrylic crystal has light scratching. Dial and hands appear well-preserved without significant oxidation. Grade: Very Good (Vintage).
Value Estimate
Market value: $150–$350 USD. Value is driven by the aesthetic appeal of the blue dial and the stainless steel case rather than brand prestige.
Care & Maintenance
Mechanical service recommended every 5-7 years. Avoid water as vintage seals are likely degraded. Keep away from strong magnets. Clean bracelet with a soft dry cloth.
Similar Watches
Vintage Seiko 6119-8140, Tissot PR 516, or Certina DS-2. These share the same 'C-Shape' or cushion aesthetic but come from more globally recognized brands.
Interesting Facts
ARP was one of many smaller European brands that vanished during the 'Quartz Crisis' of the late 70s. These brands often used the same high-quality Swiss internals as more famous houses but at a fraction of the cost.