Valjoux Watch Movements Brief
Feb 17, 2023
Valjoux is a Swiss watch movement manufacturer founded in 1901 by Edmond Capt. The company is known for producing high-quality mechanical watch movements, particularly chronograph movements. For collectors of vintage watches, the Valjoux name is synonymous with quality, precision, and horological history.
The Legendary Valjoux 72
Over the years, Valjoux produced several famous calibers. The most celebrated is the Valjoux 72 — a column-wheel manual-winding chronograph movement used in some of the most iconic watches ever made, including the Rolex Daytona, Omega Speedmaster, Breitling Navitimer, Zodiac Sea-Chron, and the Heuer Carrera.
The Valjoux 88 — A High Horology Masterpiece
The two-digit Valjoux movements are among the finest ever produced. The Valjoux 88 is a personal favorite — used in watches like the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Moonphase Ref. 1518, widely considered one of the most important and influential chronograph movements of the 20th century.
First introduced in 1949, the Valjoux 88 features a column-wheel mechanism known for its smooth operation and reliable performance, plus a triple calendar complication displaying the day, date, and month. It beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour — allowing for greater accuracy and a more precise time display. Today it is highly sought after by collectors for its impressive technical specifications and iconic design.
The Valjoux 7750 — The Modern Workhorse
Introduced in 1974, the Valjoux 7750 became one of the most widely used automatic chronograph movements in the watch industry. Known for its robustness, reliability, and accuracy, it is used by well-known brands including Omega, Breitling, and IWC.
In 2000, Valjoux was acquired by ETA SA, now part of the Swatch Group. The Valjoux name continues to be used on select movements, and the calibers remain highly sought after by vintage watch collectors worldwide.
Explore Other Great Vintage Movements
Valjoux is just one chapter in the story of great Swiss chronograph movements. At Experts Watches we carry pieces powered by some of the finest calibers ever made — explore our movement-specific collections:
- Valjoux-Powered Watches — the full collection
- Lemania Movement Watches — including the legendary Lemania 2310 used in the Omega Speedmaster and military chronographs
- Vintage Omega Watches — Cal. 321, 861, 872 and more
- All Vintage Chronograph Watches
- Vintage Heuer Watches — Carrera, Autavia, Monaco and more
Watch Guides & Resources
- Full Watch Guides Library
- History of Lemania Watches & the 2310 Movement
- Brief History of Diving Watches
- For the Love of Vintage Watches
Sell or Trade Your Vintage Watch
We actively acquire exceptional vintage timepieces powered by Valjoux, Lemania, and other great calibers. Whether you’re looking to sell or trade, we provide honest market valuations, transparent offers, and a seamless process from authentication to payment. Get an offer for your vintage watch →
📚 Explore our full Watch Guides library — including Vintage Watch Care Guide, serial number lookups, sizing charts, and movement histories
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