A Legendary Timepiece: The Porsche Design Chronograph 1
In July 1983, Doug LaViolette had the extraordinary privilege of spending an entire day photographing two legends: Paul Newman and his childhood racing idol, Mario Andretti. The story of how this remarkable experience came to be is one for another day, but today, we're here to focus on something equally exceptional—the Porsche Design Chronograph 1.
This is not just any watch; it is the exact same model that Mario Andretti wore throughout that unforgettable day, including when he was behind the wheel and ultimately standing victorious on the podium at Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.
But how did such a rare and iconic timepiece find its way into the LaViolette Foundation Watch Auction Winners Circle?
The answer lies in the passion and generosity of Jonathan Ferrer, the founder of Brew Watches and an avid Porsche and Ferrari enthusiast. Some years ago, Jonathan acquired this Porsche Design by Orfina, a piece that had long been on his radar. Upon learning about our quest to include this high-profile watch in the December Christie’s Auction, Jonathan's response was immediate and heartfelt: "Count me in. I’d like to donate my personal Porsche Watch to the auction!"
Ironically, this is the exact same model—a Porsche Design Chronograph 1—that was worn by Tom Cruise in Top Gun: Maverick, as well as in the original 1986 Top Gun blockbuster.
This legendary 1970s Day-Date model features the original black PVD finish, a true testament to its vintage authenticity. In collector's condition, the watch retains its untouched original case back and bracelet, showcasing its storied history. It houses one of the finest Swiss Made Valjoux 7750 automatic movements and boasts a chronograph function alongside a unique day-date feature.
This legendary timepiece model aligns precisely with the accompanying photographs.
Undoubtedly, this is one of the most sought-after and collectible models, encapsulating a remarkable era of design and motorsport heritage.
Porche Design
Model 7176
Orfina Manufactured 1975
41mm
Function - Chronograph
Shape - Tonneau
Value: Truly Priceless
Mario Andretti wearing the same model Photo by Doug LaViolette taken at Road America in 1983
Photos by Doug LaViolette
A Porsche Design Chronograph 1 is the same model that was worn by Tom Cruise in *Top Gun: Maverick*, as well as the original 1986 *Top Gun* blockbuster..
Photo provided by Paramount Pictures
