1965 Enicar Sherpa Graph “Jim Clark” MK III Chronograph

This vintage stainless steel Enicar Sherpa Graph 300, reference 072-02-01 from 1966, is a compelling example of a highly sought-after mid-century sports chronograph. Colloquially referred to by collectors as the "Jim Clark," this specific reference was made famous by the legendary British Formula One driver, who was frequently photographed wearing his Sherpa Graph during the peak of his racing career. By the time of his tragic passing in 1968, Clark was motor racing’s most successful driver, holding the record for 25 Grand Prix victories.

Enicar's deep-rooted connection to motorsport also extends to another racing icon, British Formula One Champion Sir Stirling Moss, who selected an Enicar Ultrasonic Sherpa Chronometer as his personal timekeeper during critical time trials. Beyond the racetrack, the "Sherpa" name itself carries a legacy of endurance, inspired by the resilient local carriers of the 1956 Swiss Himalayan expedition to Mount Everest, which relied entirely on Enicar timepieces. Engineered to withstand extreme environments, these chronographs were originally intended as rugged tool watches for professional endeavors.

The reverse-panda dial layout provides exceptional legibility, defined by its matte black surface, oversized concentric grey sub-registers, and a matching grey outer tachymeter scale. This MK III execution is highly distinguished by its original steel-edged, luminous "paddle" hour and minute hands, paired with a period-correct red "lollipop" chronograph seconds hand. At 12 o'clock, the dial features a printed white Enicar script beneath an applied metallic Saturn emblem, with a clear "SWISS MADE" signature positioned at the bottom of the 6 o'clock sub-register.

CONDITION

Dial & Hands: The original dial is in excellent condition with uniform aging across the grey sub-registers. Under magnification, there is some minor ageing visible on the subdials. The original Tritium on the hour indices and paddle hands is fully intact and has aged consistently to a warm, dark orange patina.

Case: Unpolished, remaining sharp and thick with clear original definition. Light surface scratches are present, consistent with the watch's age.

Caseback: Displays some scratches resulting from the use of incorrect case-opening tools in the past. However, all outer factory engravings and numbers remain legible.

Movement: Our watchmaker has checked the Valjoux 72 caliber. It is running well for its age healthy amplitude of 278° and is currently gaining approximately 18 seconds per day.

Signatures: Dial, case, movement, and crown are all correctly signed.

SPECIFICATIONS

Case: 40mm stainless steel 'BREVET' EPSA compressor case with large pump chronograph pushers and an original cross-hatched crown featuring the Enicar Saturn logo. Straight lugs feature sharp, defined bevels.

Caseback: Screw-down caseback displaying the signature Sherpa clamshell hallmark and external engravings: 'ENICAR - STAINLESS STEEL INCABLOC - ULTRASONIC - SHERPA'. Reference and serial numbers are fully visible.

Movement: 17-jewel Valjoux 72 manual-wind, column-wheel chronograph movement—the same legendary caliber trusted by premier manufacturers of the era, including Rolex.

Strap: Fitted on a tan brown suede strap with a stainless steel tang buckle.