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In case you were wondering, the name Kontiki is derived from the 1947 expedition that Thor Heyerdahl led. With only a radio and their Eterna watches as modern technology, he and his five companions set sail from Peru to Polynesia using pre-Columbian technology. Since they were successful, Eterna chose to name this model after their valiant efforts, so in a way, it could be compared to the Rolex Explorer.
Despite having a very different appearance, Eterna continues to produce the Eterna Kontiki, a historically significant watch model. The First Execution, which you are viewing here, is the most exquisite and unique of all the Eterna Kontikis. With its gorgeous glossy gilt dial and large, lume-filled markers for better legibility, this was the first Kontiki ever released in 1958.
This example has aged and turned into a crazy tropical, as you can see. The photographs do not adequately capture the beauty of this dial, which is among the most exquisite I have ever seen when exposed to sunlight. You get a rare watch in exceptional condition when you combine this with the yellow-orange patina on the hands and dial, as well as the flawlessly glossy dial.
This watch would be a centerpiece in any collection and is genuinely of collector quality.
