Waldan International Watches

Waldan International Watches

Waldan is one of those brands that lives in collector lore more than mainstream watch circles — but when you know the backstory, you understand why it matters.

This is a survivor’s brand, born from one man’s journey through war, watchmaking, and ultimately a mission to build something beautiful, personal, and mechanical.

A Little History

Oscar Waldan founded Waldan International in New York in the late 1970s, but his watchmaking story started long before that — as a Holocaust survivor who apprenticed

in the Swiss watch industry after World War II.

Oscar went on to work with some of the greats: Universal Genève, Rolex, and others. Eventually, he launched his own brand, producing small-batch chronographs during

the golden age

of Valjoux and Zenith El Primero movements — often sold through private dealers and retailers, with discreet branding and elegant design.

After Oscar’s passing, his son Andrew Waldan revived the brand with a new focus: American-assembled, vintage-inspired mechanical watches built to last — and built with heart.

What Collectors Love

Waldan watches appeal to those who love understated design, rich personal history, and solid watchmaking values.

Vintage pieces (from Oscar’s era) are particularly sought after:

  • Waldan Chronographs — often using Valjoux 7750 or El Primero movements, with 1940s-inspired layouts, blued hands, and multi-scale dials

  • Limited Editions — often released in small runs for private clients or retailers, featuring rare movements and high-quality Swiss cases

Modern Waldan pieces (from the relaunch) focus on:

  • Heritage Sportline and Classic models — featuring Ameriquartz movements, 316L steel, curved dials, and vintage typography

  • 40mm cases, domed sapphire crystals, and American assembly — all at under-$500 price points, making them one of the best values in entry-level American horology

Why Waldan Deserves a Spot

Because it’s one of the only brands that bridges old-school Swiss craftsmanship and modern American watchmaking, all rooted in a story that actually means something.

This isn’t just about specs. It’s about legacy — a Holocaust survivor who made it out, built a brand, and passed it to the next generation. And that next generation is doing the

work to respect the past while modernizing the future.

Waldan doesn’t chase hype. It makes honest watches, at honest prices, with a backstory that collectors can be proud to wear.

What’s Out There Now

Two lanes to explore:

Vintage Waldan (Oscar-era)

  • Valjoux 7750 or Zenith El Primero-powered chronographs

  • Typically 38–40mm, Swiss made, with clean classical dials

  • Rare, often sold through private jewelers or as low-run editions

Modern Waldan (Andrew-era)

  • Heritage Professional, Sportline, and Classic models

  • 40mm, Ameriquartz movements, domed sapphire, sub-$500 pricing

  • Made in the USA using global components, assembled in Meriden, CT

Pre-owned? The vintage chronographs are hard to find but highly respected by collectors in-the-know. Modern models are starting to pick up buzz in the American

microbrand community.

Fed’s Take

Waldan is the kind of brand I love recommending to collectors with heart.

The Oscar-era chronos? Absolute gems. Built beautifully, powered by great calibers, and often sitting under the radar — just waiting to be appreciated. The modern pieces?

Surprisingly good.

You get domed sapphire, tasteful dials, and actual American assembly for less than most fashion watches.

If you care about stories, about people, and about doing things the right way, Waldan is a rare find — and a meaningful one.

Check Out Our Waldan Inventory

Delray Watch is always on the lookout for unique Waldan watches — especially vintage chronographs, Valjoux/El Primero pieces, and modern Heritage models.

If you have a Waldan watch you’re ready to sell or trade – reach out. We’re always buying.

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