Hello together I am considering buying an Enicar Chrono 2303 "Garnix" chronograph (Val. 72) and came across the model pictured below. Does anyone have any concerns regarding its originality? The center crown looks like a "compressor crown" from dive watches, though I don't think it appears to be original. Through my research, I also have doubts about the caseback, as most Enicar Chrono 2303 models did not have a shark imprint...but then there's the 2303 engraving on the inner side of the caseback, which makes me rethink..maybe original yet? However, the dial looks good, I see no evidence of a redial. Do you guys have any concerns about the originality of the watch? Has anyone seen a compressor crown on an Enicar 2303? Best thanks for your assistance, I always appreciate it.
Hi there - This all looks original apart from the crown for a Garnix 2303. The crown is from a Sherpa Graph or similar period Enicar though, so I don't really regard it as a problem. It certainly doesn't detract from the looks, only the originality. As this is a late model Garnix, this may have even been fitted by Enicar as they ran out of normal crowns, or replaced at a first service by Enicar. Caseback is fine, as long as they say 072-01-01 and shark, or 072/003 and 2303 in both cases stamped in the inside, all ok. The only item that concerns me is the slightly off-centre minute recorder hand. That, plus the slight damage to the dial should give ample grounds for negotiation. Good luck, they are rarely seen.
Spinakerr is absolutely correct with everything he said. Watch looks a bit tired, but correct except for the crown. Nico
@Spinakerr Thank you very much for these fruitful insights! Now my concerns regarding the casebook are all gone thanks to you and further research I did on my own. I have not seen the slight misplacement of the minute recorder hand, thank you! And thank you as well for the possible explanation why there is a compressor crown fitted. Have a lovely week, I really appreciate your help!
Good luck if you go ahead - if @JimJupiter confirms my thoughts, I feel like I just got an exam right! No idea on the 'prototype' nonsense - perhaps a hangover of the 'pre-Sherpa' from previous years.
A+ mate At least it looks like this Pre-Sherpa nonsense is almost gone in current offers (For those who dont know what we are talking about: https://enicar101.com/2019/11/03/the-pre-sherpa-mystery/ )
I have just bought the watch for what I think a very good price Thank you so much for your time and help, I do really appreciate it! Have a lovely sunday!
I’n so happy guys! The watch looks way better in person. Thank you all again, such a beautiful watch!
Thank you very much @Spinakerr. I thought It would look good but I did not expect the dial to look so rich in colour