1960s Movado Kingmatic Sub-Sea 18K YG (Ref. 5261)

The Movado Kingmatic stands as a perfect example of why vintage Movado remains so compelling today. During the mid-century era, Movado competed directly with the likes of Rolex and Patek Philippe, establishing itself as one of the premier watchmakers of the period through a combination of innovative design, refined aesthetics, and exceptional manufacturing standards. While the brand’s modern identity is often associated with minimalist design, vintage Movado tells a far richer story, one deeply rooted in technical achievement and elegant watchmaking. Presented here, the solid 18K yellow gold Kingmatic Sub-Sea perfectly captures that balance between luxury and utility. Beginning in the 1930s, Movado introduced water-resistant wristwatches under the “Sub-Sea” designation, a hallmark later carried into the brand’s more robust sports and dive watches of the 1950s and 1960s. Unlike many manufacturers of the era, Movado extended this water-resistant engineering across even its dress-focused references, resulting in sophisticated pieces like this ref. 5261. With its elegant proportions, solid gold construction, and understated mid-century styling paired with the practical Sub-Sea capability, the Kingmatic represents an especially refined interpretation of the classic waterproof dress watch. SPECS Stock # MOVKMSS5261 Brand Movado Style Kingmatic Sub-Sea Model 5261 Serial 53X Size Men's Material 18K Yellow Gold Dial Silver Millimeters 35 Strap 2pc Handmade Black Alligator Strap CASE & BRACELET The classically designed, 18K yellow gold case remains in exceptional condition, exhibiting only gentle wear and light evidence of being polished in the past. The case retains its original crown, adorned with the Movado logo, which exhibits minor wear. The screw-down case back shows minimal signs of use and retains the "Kingmatic" medallion. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc black alligator leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The original silver sunburst dial features gold applied markers and remains in exceptional vintage condition overall, showing no damage and only minor age. The small tritium lume plots located at the tip of each marker exhibit some degradation throughout, though most remain present. The original yellow gold hands are also in excellent condition, though the lume in the hour hands is no longer present. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is running, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.