When Porsche Design first opened its doors in 1972 and started producing watches, Orfina was the brand that it originally chose to be its partner and manufacturer. The various Porsche Design by Orfina watches that were produced from the early 1970s into the 1980s have garnered a cult-like following over the years due to their distinct appearance, automotive association, and memorable Hollywood film appearances.
While Orfina produced a few different models for Porsche Design during the years of their partnership, the quintessential examples are those that feature black PVD cases fitted with black dials, which offer a similar overall aesthetic to the Porsche 911 dash instruments of the time. The Orfina-manufactured Military Chronograph ref. 7177 is one of the more famous models that the brand produced for Porsche Design and it is immediately identifiable due to its red 3H marketing, which stands for Hydrogen 3 (better known as tritium). The model was first sold to the public before later being issued by various nation’s military branches due to its functionality, rugged construction, and rock-solid Lemania cal. 5100 movement.
| Stock # | OFPDMILPVD | |
| Brand | Orgina Porsche Design | |
| Style | Military Chronograph | |
| Model | 71777 | |
| Serial | 72X | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel "Factory PVD" | |
| Dial | Matte Black | |
| Millimeters | 40 | |
| Strap | Porche Design Bracelet "Factory PVD" |
CASE & BRACELET
The original black factory PVD coating is lightly faded, which is highly consistent for a watch from this era. Although PVD coatings are susceptible to scratches and will inevitably wear and fade over the years, the patina that they develop is truly remarkable, and this one offers a fantastic rugged aesthetic that truly looks like nothing else. Completing the watch is its original black PVD bracelet, which offers a well-worn finish that matches its case.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black dial is in excellent overall condition and features tritium hour markers that have started to develop a warm patina. While the white dial text and red H3 marking remain crisp and bright, the orange accents on the hands have started to fade and now appear in a color that more closely matches the warm tones of the patina on the hour markers.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch is keeping time and functioning perfectly, previous service history is unknown.
