ZODIAC ASTROGRAPHIC ASTROQUARTZ MYSTERY DIAL 1977
The AstroQuartz was very likely a last attempt to refresh the Astrographic series with high-grade ETA quartz movements that were the rage in the second half of the 1970's. The usual Astro design has been slightly sterilized by applying a very "plain" crystal and the seconds-disc decreased in diameter to match the black circle printed on the dial. Not many of these must have been produced as the AstroQuartz is very hard to come by (especially in NOS condition).
The ESA9362 calibre is one of the best quartz movements created by the Swiss giant by upgrading the mass-produced and reliable mechanical ETA2879 power-horse with an electronic circuit and coil. The mechanical base calibre is the source of longevity of this movement with many still reliable 30 years later. From the early 1980's all quartz movements turned to plastic parts which are common today.
Keywords:
zodiac astrographic,
zodiac astroquartz, mystery dial
Market value: 100-250$ (condition, box)