Selection 1,001€ - 2,500€
1952 - Omega 'Big Eye' Waterproof Gilt dial + Box - Stainless steel - Ref. 2639-13
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific stainless steel Omega houses the very famous antimagnetic caliber 266. This very clean movement based on the legendary 30T2, features a Breguet hairspring and 17 jewels, it's production stopped in 1963. The perfect balance of the original dial, with the 'Big Eye' subdial makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
Maker: Omega
Model: Waterproof 'Big Eye'
Reference: 2639-13
Serial: 151995XX
Year: 1952
Material: Stainless steel
Dimentions (WxHxT): 36x44x10mm
Caliber: In House Omega 266
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
Lug width: 18mm
Box/Papers: Original 1952 Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in excellent condition. The case is well preserved, and the original gilt dial with its 'Big Eye' subdial looks great. The original lume matching perfectly the hands is present. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant, sporty and rare, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1956 - Omega Two-Tone dial Cal. 284 (Base 30T2) + Box - Stainless steel - Ref. 2892-2SC
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific stainless steel Omega houses the very famous antimagnetic caliber 284. This very clean movement based on the legendary 30T2, features a Breguet hairspring and 17 jewels. The perfect balance of the original Two-Tone dial, with the lumed steel 'Dauphine' hands makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch.
The overall condition is stunning, it has been overhauled and keeps excellent time.
There is a 1 year guarantee and the watch comes with it's 1956 original Omega box.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
Maker: Omega
Model: Two-Tone dial 2892-2SC
Reference: 2892-2SC
Movement serial: 15.199.5XX
Year: 1956
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions (WxHxT): 36x43x10mm
Caliber: In House Omega 284
Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather wit Omega pinbuckle
Lug width: 18mm
Box/Papers: Original 1956 Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in excellent condition. The case is very well preserved, and the original Two-Tone 'grey/light brown' dial is just stunning. The original hands lume matching perfectly the indexe's lume are present. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant, sporty and rare, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1946 Omega Early automatic - Solid 18k Case and buckle + Original box - Ref. 2398
A fine and elegant early Omega automatic dresswatch in solid 18k Yellow gold case and pinbuckle with it's original 1946 box.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific gold Omega houses the very famous and legendary Omega 30,10 RA.
One of Omega’s first automatic movements, initially produced from 1942 to 1949 as the Cal.30.10 RA PC This highly successful movement with a power reserve of 42 hours became part of a hugely successful family of Omega’s automatic movements with over 1,300,000 produced – 500,000 of which were Chronometers. This series powered many thousands of the early Omega Seamaster and Constellation watches. Indeed, much of the modern-day success of the Omega company we know today can be attributed to this movement.
This particular watch was one of the first automatic Omega's produced, this movement was launched in 1942.
The perfect balance of the immaculate 'Sunburst' dial, with applied gold indexes makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
Maker: Omega
Model: Automatic 1946
Reference: 2398
Year: 1946
Material: Solid 18k Yellow gold
Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x10mm
Caliber: Omega 30,10 RA
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
Lug width: 18mm
Box/Papers: Original 1946 Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in near to mint condition. The case is extremely well preserved, and the original 'Sunburst' dial with the 'Dauphine' hands is dashing. The lume on the hands and dial is original and present. The Original Omega pinbuckle is in solid gold and the watch comes with it's rare 1946 Omega box. This is truly a fine classic and collectible timepiece, elegant and timeless, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear or more formal events.
1947 Omega 'Calatrava' Classical Dresswatch - Ref. 13322
A fine and elegant Omega dresswatch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific stainless steel Omega houses the very famous and legendary 30T2. The perfect balance of the two-tonedial, with a large subdial and the thin case makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
A L Dennison were based in Birmingham, and was an English case-makers who imported Omega movements and cased them for Omega some in 9k or 18k and also stainless steel (“Denisteel”) cases. They cased movements for several other Swiss makers too, including Rolex and Longines.
The top number 13322 is the Dennison case reference (for style or type), and is not found in the Omega database, unlike many of the American 14k case references which are in the Omega DB. Then we have the maker’s ID, the Omega triangle (which does not appear on Dennison cases until 1953), the 1345 is a serial number which all Dennison cases have and is unique to this watch, unlike the Swiss cases which have a case style reference only.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Calatrava
- Reference: 13322
- Year: 1947
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x9,5mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 30T2 PC AM
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in excellent condition. The case is extremely well preserved, and the original 'Two-Tone' silver dial with matching silver 'Leaf' hands is dashing. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant and pure, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear or more formal events.
1972 Zenith Automatic extremely rare 'High Beat' with original Box - Ref. SC 6741
A fine and extremely rare 28.800 Bph Zenith Automatic
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This particular Zenith houses a high grade caliber 2562 PC, manufactured only for a 3 years period (1972 to 1975). The unpolished case is in excellent condition with the original satin finish on the bezel. The black original dial with mirror indexes is extremely rare and gives to this watch a very elegant and sporty look.
The 2562 PC has 23 jewels, a 46 hour power reserve, and beats at 28,800/bph. It features a screwless Glucydur balance and fine regulator adjustment by eccentric screw. It winds on ball bearings via a click-wheel switcher on the crown wheel. The 2562 is a truly excellent performer, and well-capable of attaining chronometer status.
This watch comes with its original Zenith box.
THE STORY
Today when one thinks of a vintage Zenith, the first thing that comes to mind is the El Primero chronographs. But other than its chronograph pieces, Zenith was also busy creating other sports models, taking cues from 1960s and 1970s design. This example is another creation by the manufacturer that is simply a workhorse type piece perfect for everyday wear. The case measures 35mm across, but the vertically elongated cushion-shape is 41mm from top to bottom; the lugs and this shape certainly create quite a presence on the wrist. The dial is uncomplicated with legibility in mind, but with the little quirkiness of the date being at four. Keeping in line with Zenith’s legacy as a movement maker, the watch is fitted with a self-winding caliber 2562PC, which is a high-beat movement with great performance that was used in the Respirator models from the same era.
THE DATA
- Maker: Zenith
- Model: Automatic Sport Cushion
- Reference: SC 6741
- Case N°: 808D5xx
- Year: 1972
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x41x11,5mm
- Caliber: In house Automatic Zenith 2562 PC
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: Original Zenith box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
The cushion case is in sharp condition, and has kept its original angles nicely. The original black dial is perfect. The watch comes with a new black leather strap. The dial, case and crown are signed, all parts are original. It has a cool and elegant presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1954 Universal Geneve Monodatic - Ref. 200103-2
One of the very first Universal Genève featuring the famous Gérald Genta Design.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by a young Gerald Genta, the 'Monodatic' with inverted lugs features a revolutionary design in watchmaking history and is a welcome addition to any collection. This particular model with the rare 138C 'Bumper' automatic movement was produced only for one year .
THE STORY
The 'Inverted lugs case' was designed in 1954 by a 24-years-old named Gerald Genta, the very same man who, almost 20 years later, would design the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. It was fitted with a bumper movement like the one you see here, one of the first produced and boasts a robust stainless-steel case with a silver satinated dial.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Monodatic Automatic
- Reference: 200103-2
- Case N°: 1677xxx
- Year: 1954
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x43x11mm
- Caliber: 138C
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 19mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in good condition for its age. The unpolished case is well preserved with very light scratches throughout, and the silver dial looks great. This timepiece is still in its original condition with the signed crown. This is a classic vintage, perfect for everyday wear.
1937 Universal Geneve Cuervo Y Sobrinos
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This isn't just any vintage Universal Genève. No, it's manufactured by them and retailed by Cuervo y Sobrinos in Cuba (as you can see on the dial). Cuervo y Sobrinos were the most famous watchmakers and distributors in Havana, until the political events that occured in the island during the late 1950s.
THE STORY
In 1882, the Cuervo family opened the first atelier and then also a boutique, situated at Havana's prestigious San Rafael Avenue. Later in 1900, Armando Rio Cuervo with the help of his family, worked diligently to expand the jewellery and watchmaking business founded by their uncle Ramon. Hence the name Cuervo y Sobrinos - Cuervo and Nephews. In addition to their own creations, Cuervo y Sobrinos distributed and sold the most important brands in global watchmaking. The family achieved such renown that some of the great watch brands engraved the Cuervo y Sobrinos name on their watch dials. Between 1920s and the 40s, the family decided to expand its production network in strategic European cities, Pforzheim, La Chaux-de-Fonds and Paris. In the 1950s, the boutique became an obligatory destination for some of the most illustrious visors to Havana during that era. Einstein, Caruso, Churchill, Hemingway, Clark Gable, Eleanora Duse, Pablo Neruda, all these illustrious clienteles came to the Cuervo y Sobrinos boutique when they visited the island.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Cuervo y Sobrinos -Art Deco, Carrée Galbée
- Reference: 7274
- Case N°: 702xxx
- Year: 1937
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x10mm
- Caliber: UG259
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the original silver dial looks great. This is a rare Universal Genève with a very elegant Art Déco design.
1962 Universal Geneve Classical Extra-Flat Dresswatch - Ref. 18201-1
A fine and elegant gentleman's wristwatch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève is famous for their creativity in case and dial designs. This particular extra-flat watch has a very pure and minimalist design, making it insensitive to the fashion trends, eternal elegance. The very well preserved case has never been repolished and the dial is original.
THE STORY
Universal Genève has been on the up and up over the past few years and it's easy to see why. The Swiss manufacture consistently produced beautiful complicated watches . This example feature a perfect balance of elegance and refinement.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Classical Extra-Flat
- Reference: 18201-1
- Case N°: 2267xxx
- Year: 1962
- Material: 18k Solid Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 33x38,5x6mm
- Caliber: UG 820
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredibely good condition for its age. The solid 18k yellow gold case is well preserved and has never been repolished. The unrefinished silver-white dial with applied gold indexes has beautiful light effects. This is a great wristwatch, it has a nice presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1969 Universal Geneve Classical Extra-Flat Dresswatch - Ref. 842101
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève is famous for their creativity in case and dial designs. This particular extra-flat watch has a very pure and minimalist design, making it insensitive to the fashion trends, eternal elegance. The very well preserved case has never been polished and the dial is original.
THE STORY
Universal Genève has been on the up and up over the past few years and it's easy to see why. The Swiss manufacture consistently produced beautiful complicated watches . This example feature a perfect balance of elegance and refinement.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Classical Extra-Flat
- Reference: 842101
- Case N°: 2814xxx
- Year: 1969
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 31x38x7mm
- Caliber: UG 42
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 16mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredibely good condition for its age. The stainless steel case is well preserved and has never been polished. The original grey dial with white roman numbers matching the white hands is dahing. This is a great wristwatch, that can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1940 Universal Geneve large 'Talisman' for Hermès - Ref 7477
An extremely rare and elegant watch, made especially for Hermès
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This isn't just any vintage Universal Genève. No, it's manufactured by them and retailed onlyby Hermès in France (as you can see on the advertisement). Hermès is the most famous and elegant French brand and they asked Universal Genève to manufacture their watches between 1936 and 1940.
THE STORY
Thierry Hermès was born in Krefeld, Germany, to a French father and a German mother. The family moved to France in 1828. In 1837, Hermès first established a harness workshop in the Grands Boulevards quarter of Paris, dedicated to serving European noblemen. He created high-quality wrought harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade, winning several awards including the first prize in its class in 1855 and again in 1867 at the Expositions Universelles in Paris.
Hermès's son, Charles-Émile, took over management from his father in 1880 and moved the shop to 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, where it remains. With the help of his sons Adolphe and Émile-Maurice, Charles-Émile introduced saddlery and started selling his products retail. The company catered to the élite of Europe, North Africa, Russia, Asia, and the Americas. In 1900, the firm offered the Haut à Courroies bag, specially designed for riders to carry their saddles with them.
After Charles-Émile Hermès's retirement, sons Adolphe and Émile-Maurice took leadership and renamed the company Hermès Frères. Shortly after, Émile-Maurice began furnishing the czar of Russia with saddles. By 1914, up to 80 saddle craftsmen were employed. Subsequently, Émile-Maurice was granted the exclusive rights to use the zipper for leather goods and clothing, becoming the first to introduce the device in France. In 1918, Hermès introduced the first leather golf jacket with a zipper, made for Edward, Prince of Wales. Because of its exclusive rights arrangement the zipper became known in France as the fermeture Hermès (Hermès fastener).
Throughout the 1920s when he was the sole head of the firm, Émile-Maurice added accessories and clothing collections. He also groomed his three sons-in-law (Robert Dumas, Jean-René Guerrand, and Francis Puech) as business partners. In 1922, the first leather handbags were introduced after Émile-Maurice's wife complained of not being able to find one to her liking. Émile-Maurice created the handbag collection himself.
In 1924, Hermès established a presence in the United States and opened two shops outside of Paris. In 1929, the first women's couture apparel collection was previewed in Paris. During the 1930s, Hermès introduced some of its most recognized original goods such as the leather "Sac à dépêches" in 1935 (later renamed the "Kelly bag" after Grace Kelly) and the Hermès carrés (square scarves) in 1937.
The scarves became integrated into French culture. In 1938, the "Chaîne d'ancre" bracelet and the riding jacket and outfit joined the classic collection. By this point, the company's designers began to draw inspirations from paintings, books, and objets d'art. The 1930s also witnessed Hermès's entry into the United States market by offering products in a Neiman Marcus department store in New York; however, it later withdrew. In 1949, the same year as the launch of the Hermès silk tie, the first perfume, "Eau d'Hermès", was produced.
From 1936, Hermès employed Swiss watchmaker Universal Genève as the brand's first and exclusive designer of timepieces, producing a line of men's wrist watches (manufactured in 18K gold or stainless steel) and women's Art Déco cuff watches in 18K gold, steel, or platinum. Both models contained dials signed either "Universal Genève", "Hermès" or "Hermès Universal Genève", while the watch movements were signed "Universal Genève S.A.". The Hermès/Universal partnership lasted until 1940.
Émile-Maurice summarized the Hermès philosophy during his leadership as "leather, sport, and a tradition of refined elegance.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Hermès 'Talisman'
- Reference: 7477
- Case N°: 801xxx
- Year: 1940
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 22x37x8mm
- Caliber: UG 240
- Bracelet/Strap: Black custom made leather
- Lug width: 19mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the original black dial with hold hands matching the indexes looks great. This is a rare Universal Genève / Hermès with a very elegant Art Déco design. The large case for the era, still looks actual and has a very nice presence on the wrist, this refined watch can be worn everyday and for more formal occasions.
1957 Universal Geneve 'Space Age' Wristwatch - Ref. 28803/1
A fine and rare gentleman's wristwatch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève is famous for their creativity in case and dial designs. This particular extra-flat watch has a very special 'Space Age' design, with spectacular original hands. It is the only Universal Genève ever manufactured with its brand printed at 6hrs. The rarity and the exceptional design makes this particular example a collectors must.
THE STORY
Universal Genève has been on the up and up over the past few years and it's easy to see why. The Swiss manufacture consistently produced beautiful complicated watches . This example feature a perfect balance of elegance and refinement.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Space Age Extra-Flat
- Reference: 28803/1
- Case N°: 1915xxx
- Year: 1957
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 31x38x8mm
- Caliber: UG 800
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 16mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in good condition, the stainless steel case is well preserved and has never been repolished. The unrefinished slightly patinated white dial, with the special design and the amazing hands, is startling. This is a great wristwatch that can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1940s Jaeger LeCoultre 8 Days Mantel Clock
A fine Jaeger LeCoultre 8 Days Mantel Clock.
WHY IS THIS MANTEL CLOCK SPECIAL
This model was created and manufactured by Jaeger LeCoultre in the 1940s. This particular example houses a 8 days power reserve movement (Only one winding every 8 days) . This brass model is rare, especially in such well preserved condition.
THE STORY
Not all firms in the watchmaking field have been able to stand the test of time quite like Jaeger-leCoultre, also known as the "watchmaker's watchmaker". Founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre and originally named only LeCoultre, the company provided watchmaking's top brands, such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Audemars Piguet, the high-grade, unfinished movements with which they completed their watches.
In the early 1900s, Cartier's watch supplier Edmond Jaeger sought out Antoine LeCoultre's help in creating the wotld's thinnest watches. The collaboration resulted in the manufacturing of Cartier's earliest Tank and Santos watches, all housed with LeCoultre movements. The team decided to merge in 1937, and the firm officially became the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand by which collectors know it today. Some of the firm's most significant and important timepieces include the Reverso, the Ados travel clock, the Memovox, the Atmos clock and, among modern watches, their Master Complications.
THE DATA
- Maker: Jaeger LeCoultre
- Model: 8 Days Mantel Clock
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: N/A
- Year: 1940s
- Material: Brass
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 15x16x4cm
- Caliber: In House JLC 8 days power reserve
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This Mantel clock is in very good condition. The Brass case is extremely well preserved. The unrefinished dial with the brass indexes separated from the background is simply stunning. The 'Bréguet' hands are typical from the era. This is a great mantel/desk clock, elegant and rare with a very typical design, it has a nice size and personality, perfect for any elegant home or office.
1950s Cufflinks 'Horseshoe' Solid Gold with diamonds and ruby
WHY ARE THESE CUFFLINKS SPECIAL
Custom made model with 11 diamonds and 1 ruby on each cufflink.
THE DATA
- Maker: N/A
- Model: 'Horseshoe'
- Reference: N/A
- Year: 1950s
- Material: 18k Solid yellow gold
- Motive dimentions (WxH): 14 x 16,5mm
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
These cufflinks are in overall very good condition. They have a nice and elegant presence on the cuffs an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1938 Cigarette Box Custom Made for the Famous Writer Paul Claudel - Solid Silver
WHY IS THIS CIGARETTE BOX SPECIAL
This concave cigarette box is a work of art, the beautiful engraving represent the chinese rural life in the 1930'. The overall condition is great, without scratches or deformation. It was custom made for the famous french writer and diplomar Paul Claudel, nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in six different years, and youngest brother of the renowned french sculptress Camille Claudel.
THE STORY
Paul Claudel (6 August 1868 – 23 February 1955) was a French poet, dramatist and diplomat, and the younger brother of the sculptress Camille Claudel . He was most famous for his verse dramas, which often convey his devout Catholicism. Claudel was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in six different years
He was born in Villeneuve-sur-Frère, into a family of farmers and government officials. His father, Louis-Prosper, dealt in mortgages and bank transactions. His mother, the former Louise Cerveaux, came from a Champagne family of Catholic farmers and priests. Having spent his first years in Champagne, he studied at the lycée of Bar-le-Duc and at the Lycée Louis-le-Grand in 1881, when his parents moved to Paris. An unbeliever in his teenage years, he experienced a sudden conversion at the age of eighteen on Christmas Day 1886 while listening to a choir sing Vespers in the cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris: "In an instant, my heart was touched, and I believed." He would remain an active Catholic for the rest of his life. He studied at the Paris Institute of Political Studies (better known as Sciences Po).
The young Claudel seriously considered entering a Benedictine monastery, but in the end began a career in the French diplomatic corps, in which he would serve from 1893 to 1936. He was first vice-consul in New York (April 1893), and later in Boston (December 1893). He was French consul in China (1895–1909), including consul in Shanghai (June 1895), and vice-consul in Fuzhou (October 1900), consul in Tianjin (Tientsin) (1906–1909), in Prague (December 1909), Frankfurt am Main (October 1911), Hamburg (October 1913), ministre plénipotentiaire in Rio de Janeiro (1916), Copenhagen (1920), ambassador in Tokyo (1922–1928), Washington, D.C. (1928–1933) and Brussels (1933–1936). While he served in Brazil during the First World War he supervised the continued provision of food supplies from South America to France. (His secretaries during the Brazil mission included Darius Milhaud, later world-famous as a composer, who wrote incidental music to a number of Claudel's plays.)
In his youth Claudel was heavily influenced by the poetry of Arthurd Rimbaud and the Symbolists. Like them, he was horrified by modern materialist views of life. Unlike most of them, his response was to embrace Catholicism. All his writings are passionate rejections of the idea of a mechanical or random universe, instead proclaiming the deep spiritual meaning of the human life founded on God's all-governing grace and love.
Claudel wrote in a unique verse style. He rejected traditional metrics in favour of long, luxuriant, unrhymed lines of free verse, the so-called verset claudelien, influenced by the Latin psalms of the Vulgate. His language and imagery was often lush, mystical, exhilarating, consciously 'poetical'; the settings of his plays tended to be romantically distant, medieval France or sixteenth-century Spanish South America, yet spiritually all-encompassing, transcending the level of material realism. He used scenes of passionate, obsessive human love to convey with great power God's infinite love for humanity. His plays were often extraordinarily long, sometimes stretching to eleven hours, and pressed the realities of material staging to their limits. Yet they were physically staged, at least in part, to rapturous acclaim, and are not merely closet dramas. The most famous of his plays are Le Partage de Midi ("The Break of Noon", 1906), L'Annonce faite à Marie ("The Tidings Brought to Mary", 1910) focusing on the themes of sacrifice, oblation and sanctification through the tale of a young medieval French peasant woman who contracts leprosy, and Le Soulier de Satin ("The Satin Slipper", 1931), his deepest exploration of human and divine love and longing set in the Spanish empire of the siglo de oro, which was staged at the Comédie-Française in 1943. In later years he wrote texts to be set to music, most notably Jeanne d'Arc au Bûcher ("Joan of Arc at the Stake", 1939), an "opera-oratorio" with music by Arthur Honegger.
As well as his verse dramas, Claudel also wrote much lyric poetry, for example the Cinq Grandes Odes (Five Great Odes, 1907).
THE DATA
- Maker: N/A
- Model: N/A
- Year: 1938
- Material: Solid Silver
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 12,7x8,2x9cm
- Box/Papers: Box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This cigarette box is in mint condition. The solid silver case is flawless without any stains, or scratches. The case comes with its original box. Witness of an era and the life of a famous and talented family, this cigarette box will enchant any elegant and refined person.
1937 Tea/Coffee 'Sphere' Art Deco Service in Solid Silver
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A fine and rare Tea/Coffee 'Spherical' Art Deco Swedish service
WHY IS THIS SERVICE SPECIAL
Karl Anderson was a Swedish silversmith working in Stockholm from 1913 to the beginning of WW II. We all know the talent of the Swedish designers, this particular solid silver four-pieces service is a perfect illustration of line purity and Art Deco perfection. The tea/coffeepot, creamer, sugar basin and tray are in perfect condition without any scratch or tarnish.
THE DATA
- Maker: Karl Anderson
- Model: Sphere Art Deco
- Year: 1937 (Hallmark 'L8')
- Material: .830 Solid Silver (Hallmark 'S')
- Dimensions:
- Total weight: 714 Grams
- Plate diameter: 24 Centimeters
- Tea-pot: 12 Centimeters
- Box/Papers: Box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This service is in almost new condition and complete. The solid .830 silver and removable wood handle are flawless without any stains, or scratches (just a few very small scratches under the tray). Witness of an era, this service will find it's place in any elegant home or office.
1981 Omega Equinoxe aka 'Reverso' - FULL SET - Ref. 186.0013
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An unusual and rare Omega with its original papers and box.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
There’s so much to say about this watch, so why not start by saying this: this particular model, the ‘Equinoxe’, was the world first watch to feature two watches on the same watch case. Yes, even before JLC did it, Omega produced this masterpiece only in 1981. This watch is as rare as it gets.
Analog and classic on one side, and digital and revolutionary on the other, this watch has it all.
Stylistically the watch owes quite a bit to the Jaeger-Lecoultre Reverso, but the bracelet is also reminiscent of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. The bracelet is long and will fit most wrist, and has the correct clasp that still has the steel logo insert.
In the early 1980’s Omega were experimenting with making high end quartz watches like this. Ultimately it was not the right strategy, as they had to allow swatch to buy them to save them shortly afterwards. When new, this watch retailed for 1,500CHF (about £346), when you could buy a Automatic Seamaster with day and date, on a bracelet, for £120. This really was a premium watch. This scarce timepiece comes as a 'Full Set' (Original guarantee & box), which is extremely rare and collectible !
THE STORY
The Olympic Games – where millions of fans are eager for the thrills and spills of competition sport. Here the supreme arbiter is timekeeping and It must not fail, falter or fumble. Things have truly changed since 1932 when, for the first time, Omega timed the Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
In 1952, responding inventively to the demands of constantly improving sports performance, Omega pioneered the development of electronically assisted sports timekeeping.
Behind the scenes at the Olympic games, a squad of electronics engineers supervised the complex and extremely refined timekeeping equipment. Tailored to individual Olympic disciplines, the equipment was designed to display both the intermediate and final times directly to television screens across across the world to 1/100th of a second; the degree of precision prescribed by the organizing committee for the Games. Omega technicians themselves are monitored performances to 1/1000th of a second!
Everyone appreciated the spectacular mastery of quartz electronic precision during the Olympic games. It stands to reason that a similar commitment to this sophisticated technology came about in the form of a personal, wrist-worn, quartz-piloted instrument: the Omega digital watch.
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Equinoxe (Aka 'Reverso')
- Reference: 186.0013
- Year: 1981
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 27x38x9mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 1655
- Bracelet/Strap: Original Omega stainless steel (Up to a 20cm wrist)
- Lug width: N/A
- Box/Papers: Original Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in top condition. The unpolished case is extremely well preserved, the stainless steel strap is very long and not stretched at all (Up to a 20cm wrist). All parts are original and every function works properly.
This is a very unusual and collectible Omega, manufactured only for 1 year it will draw the attention of watch enhousiasts for sure. This scarce chronograph comes with its original box and guarantee !
It has a presence on the wrist with its integrated steel bracelet, perfect for everyday wear.
1928 ATO 'Skyscraper' Art Deco Marble Mantel Clock
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WHY IS THIS MANTEL CLOCK SPECIAL
This model was created and manufactured in France by Léon Hatot. This particular example houses an original 1928 ATO electric movement movement (Powered with a replacable modern 1,5 volt battery). As a visionary Léon Hatot manufactured the very first electric movements in the horological history. The featured 'Skycraper' model made out of green and amber marble is rare not only because of its design but also in regard of the exceptional original condition.
THE STORY
Born on the 22nd April 1883 at Châtillon Sur Seine, died on the 11th September 1953, Léon Hatot was a student at the School of Horology in Besançon between 1895 and 1898, then at the École des Beaux-Arts in Besançon. In 1905, at an early age, he set up his own business specialising in engraving watch cases which grew rapidly into a workshop employing artisans making high quality clocks in precious metals and jewels. He later established himself in Paris where, in 1911, he move in with the firm "Bredillard", while keeping his workshop in Besançon. He was then, and for a while afterwards, one of several creators of artistic clocks and jewellery, supplying the main dealers in the rue de la Paix.
In "La France Horlogère" in 1920 the Council includes, under specialist contributors, «Hatot Industriel et Artiste Bijoutier» or "Hatot, Industrial and Artistic Jeweller".
A questioning and visionary spirit, Léon Hatot interested himself very early on in the subject of electrical horology and, in 1920, founded a separate division for research and development of clocks and watches powered by electric cells. In the same year, his businesses both in Paris and in Besançon were amalgamated as a single company: "Société des Etablissements Léon Hatot". To assist in the research and development of electrical horology, in 1923 he collaborated with Marius Lavet, an engineer in Arts and Crafts at the Ecole Supérieure d'Electricité and who, like himself, was passionately interested in the applications of electricity in horology.
Trading under the name "ATO" from 1923, electric clocks were produced in Besançon in a partially rebuilt factory in the rue de la Rotonde. They were an immediate unprecedented success in the market place. At the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs in 1925, Léon Hatot won a Grand Prix for a whole range of electric clocks, housed in marble, chrome, marquetry and fine wood cases, even in some instances in cases of moulded glass from the famous Lalique factories. Léon Hatot was decorated with the Legion of Honour and nominated as a judge in the commercial tribunal in the Seine as well as being a consultant in foreign trade.
In 1929, Léon Hatot made a significant invention with the automatic winding watch "ROLLS". In this device, the movement is wound by the motion of an arm sliding inside the case, guided by balls between two runners. This mechanism had the advantage of working with the minimum of friction and permitted the manufacture of movements of extremely small size, perfectly adapted to rectangular watches which were in fashion at the time - particularly for ladies watches. A contract dated 23rd September 1930 was drawn up between the Hatot company and a Monsieur Blancpain giving exclusive manufacturing rights and sole distribution right within France and Belgium for the autowinding "ROLLS" watches. Despite this invention, crowned by a Medal of Honour by the Société d'Encouragement pour l'Industrie Nationale, it did not yield the success it deserved as its commercial exploitation was affected by the world economic crisis of 1929.
Throughout this time, Léon Hatot maintained his workshop for jewellery and highly decorated watch cases in Paris which, in 1926, he put under the control of Edouard Dietsch who became engaged to his daughter.
The works then found a new period of growth which, helped by the sales of ATO electric clocks, financed the very expensive research into electrical horology which Léon Hatot pursued with his friend Marius Lavet - research which was spectacularly rewarded by the invention of the electric clock "ATO-RADIOLA" which received correcting time signals by radio waves.
In 1929, by extending his export activities into Italy, Belgium and Germany, where he established agreements with Haller & Benzing and HAC (a company eventually taken over by Junghans) for the manufacture and distribution of ATO clocks, Léon Hatot not only saved his business but succeeded in developing it.
His great artistic qualities always made him want to make special pieces. As at the beginning of his career he conceived and realised with his own hands, on behalf of the town of Besançon, a very fine pocket watch which was presented to the French President, Armand Fallières.
Later, he designed and modelled the glass trophy presented each year to the horologist who obtained the best results in the annual competition the "Concours de Chronométrie". He was also a founder member of the French Horological Society.
At the Colonial Exhibition of 1931, Léon Hatot displayed electric clocks of very small proportions which were the origin of a new generation of decorative clocks. In particular, he created a new model, the concept and presentation of which were revolutionary, in which he dispensed with traditional decorated cases and made the movement itself the sole decorative element. This paved the way for a whole new fashion which swept along most makers who adopted this "avant garde" using glass and chrome which blended perfectly with the furniture of the day. His fertile imagination also launched onto the market other original creations such at the "Aquatora" in which the time was shown on the circumference of an illuminated aquarium and the "Maplux" where the time anywhere in the world was shown along the equator of a terrestrial globe.
In parallel with his production of electric clocks, in 1933 Léon Hatot opened a new department for time distribution systems by means of a "master clock" which controlled several "slave clocks". This was done by taking over the business of Paul Garnier, founded in 1825 which specialised in time distribution at railway stations and public buildings. The transference of the factory at Besançon was at last decided upon, and the different services of the company were regrouped in the premises of Paul Garnier at 9, rue Beudan in Paris.
In 1939, from the beginning of the Second World War, the Hatot company was requisitioned for the production of Sperry gyrocompasses and other instruments for aviation as well as various navigational aids for the French Navy. The surrender in 1940 put an end to these activities as Léon Hatot refused any form of collaboration with the Germans.
The Hatot Company was among the first to embody in their instruments important improvements made possible by the application of transistors in horology. Their first patents were filed on 16th September 1953, but the Hatot Company did not have sufficient funds to exploit their numerous patents worldwide, so they granted licences to several of the principal horological producers in the industrialised countries which is why there exist throughout the world millions of watches and clocks signed L. Leroy & Cie., Ebauches S.A., Junghans, Westclox, Smith & Son, Bulova, Jaz et General Time, all carrying the words "Lic. ATO".
It was the same for the Chronostats I, II and III, electronic marine chronometers which were supplied by L. Leroy & Co. to the French Navy, the Ecole Normale Supérieure, la Compagnie Générale Transatlantique and the Institut de Physique du Globe. Chronostat III in particular was used for polar expeditions and was installed in Navy buildings and on the most prestigious vessels including the aircraft carriers "Clémenceau" and "Foch, the helicopter carrier "Jeanne d'Arc", and various submarines of the "Daphné" class. Eventually, following a decision by the Secretary General of the Merchant Navy dated 31st July 1959, the Chronostat III was derestricted and made available for use on liners and merchant ships, not only on the prestigious liner "France" and the splendid "Sovereign of the Sea" but also on numerous oil carriers and container ships of the Shell company.
Léon Hatot died on the 11th September 1953 at the age of 70, following a long illness after a life overflowing with activities in art, where he distinguished himself in the field of horology as one of the Masters of the Art-Deco period, and in science where his creative and visionary spirit gave birth to several inventions which heralded the development of horology in the third quarter of the 20th Century.
THE DATA
- Maker: ATO
- Model: Skyscraper
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: N/A
- Year: 1928
- Material: Marble and brass
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 49x31x9,5cm
- Caliber: In House ATO 'Type 120' 1,5 Volts electric movement
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This mantel clock is in extraordinary condition. The marble structure is extremely well preserved without chips or scratches. The unrefinished Two-Tone dial with the impressive art deco numbers is simply stunning. This is a great mantel clock, elegant and rare with a very art deco design, it has a nice size and personality, perfect for any 'design interior' home or office.
1960 Omega Seamaster Waterproof - Ref. 14389-1
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. This particular example has the screw-down caseback that guarantees a perfect resistance to humidity and features the seahorse in relief (Previous models had a snap-on caseback and a seahorse engraved). The well preserved case houses the high quality 268 Omega caliber, based on the famous 30T2 but improved with a Breguet hairspring, a ring instead a screw balance and a shock protection.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. What distinguished the Seamaster from its diving watch predecessors was its O-ring gasket which improved its water-resistance. Previously water-resistant watches relied on lead or shellac gaskets which were easily affected by temperature changes like those a diver would experience at various depths. Omega turned to the submarines used during WWII for inspiration and included a resilient rubber gasket in the Seamaster’s final design. This new case remained intact at depths up to 60 meters and temperature ranges between -40 degrees and 50 degrees Celsius.
Omega engineers was so confident of the Seamaster’s durability, they attached one to the outside of an aircraft and flew it over the North Pole in 1956.
The Seamaster was a watch for customers who wanted something for town, sea and country and took inspiration from the watches Omega produced for the British military in World War II. These 'watch wristlet waterproof' or w.w.w watches were more utilitarian in design than the first Seamasters but the basic elements remained the same: Solid case construction, legible dials and a world class movement inside. The tradition of Seamaster dress watches continued throughout the 1940s all the way to present day.
The Omega Seamaster received a major boon when it was selected as the James Bond watch. Although James Bond’s author Ian Flemming included a Rolex watch in his novel and even wore a Rolex himself, Omega pushed Rolex out of the film as the costume designer noted Omega was more historically relevant to the British Royal Navy and, in turn, the James Bond character. Therefore, Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond wore an Omega Quartz Seamaster Professional 300 in the film Golden Eye in 1995. For the next three Bond films, Brosnan sported the Omega Seamaster Automatic Chronometer in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).
When actor Daniel Craig was cast as the next James Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, he wore an Omega Seamaster. Craig donned a Seamaster again for Quantum of Solace (2008) and a Seamaster for Skyfall (2012). In celebration of the 24th Bond film, Spectre (2015), and a 20 year-long partnership with the Bond franchise, Omega released the special edition Seamaster Spectre which harkened back to the original Bond Seamaster.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster
- Reference: 14389-1
- Year: 1960
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35,5x44x10,5mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 268
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved and unrepolished with some normal use light scratches, the original white dial with applied gold markers markers looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1957 Omega Seamaster Waterproof - Ref. 2937-1
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A fine and legendary Omega Seamaster with a beautiful two-tone dial
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. This particular example has the pre-seahorse caseback and a rare two-tone original dial. The well preserved case houses the high quality 267 Omega caliber, based on the famous 30T2 but improved with a Breguet hairspring, a ring instead a screw balance and a shock protection. The difference between the Breguet spring and the regular hairspring is that it is concentric, meaning that the power stored and released as the spring opens and closes (while the balance turns from side to side) stays centered. The layout of the spring is in two levels, hence the term overcoil.
A wristwatch will experience any thinkable position while in use, and gravity will have much more impact on the hairspring if the force and weight of it moves off center all the time, in eccentric motions.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. What distinguished the Seamaster from its diving watch predecessors was its O-ring gasket which improved its water-resistance. Previously water-resistant watches relied on lead or shellac gaskets which were easily affected by temperature changes like those a diver would experience at various depths. Omega turned to the submarines used during WWII for inspiration and included a resilient rubber gasket in the Seamaster’s final design. This new case remained intact at depths up to 60 meters and temperature ranges between -40 degrees and 50 degrees Celsius.
Omega engineers was so confident of the Seamaster’s durability, they attached one to the outside of an aircraft and flew it over the North Pole in 1956.
The Seamaster was a watch for customers who wanted something for town, sea and country and took inspiration from the watches Omega produced for the British military in World War II. These 'watch wristlet waterproof' or w.w.w watches were more utilitarian in design than the first Seamasters but the basic elements remained the same: Solid case construction, legible dials and a world class movement inside. The tradition of Seamaster dress watches continued throughout the 1940s all the way to present day.
The Omega Seamaster received a major boon when it was selected as the James Bond watch. Although James Bond’s author Ian Flemming included a Rolex watch in his novel and even wore a Rolex himself, Omega pushed Rolex out of the film as the costume designer noted Omega was more historically relevant to the British Royal Navy and, in turn, the James Bond character. Therefore, Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond wore an Omega Quartz Seamaster Professional 300 in the film Golden Eye in 1995. For the next three Bond films, Brosnan sported the Omega Seamaster Automatic Chronometer in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).
When actor Daniel Craig was cast as the next James Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, he wore an Omega Seamaster. Craig donned a Seamaster again for Quantum of Solace (2008) and a Seamaster for Skyfall (2012). In celebration of the 24th Bond film, Spectre (2015), and a 20 year-long partnership with the Bond franchise, Omega released the special edition Seamaster Spectre which harkened back to the original Bond Seamaster.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster
- Reference: 2937-1
- Year: 1957
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 36x44x9,5mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 267
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved and unrepolished with some normal use light scratches, the original two-tone dial with applied gold numbers looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1943 Chopard L.U.C. Military 'Teardrop Lugs'
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A fine and rare L.U.C. (Louis Ulysse Chopard) Military watch
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This refined timepiece features all the characteristics of elegance and watchmaking savoir-faire. This particular timepiece was made for military purpose, all specifications are present; The dial has a 24 hrs display, big luminescent indexes, large luminescent 'Sword' hands, a screwed waterproof case and an anti-shock movement !
In 1943, only few high end watches featured the revolutionary 'Incabloc' shock absorber and antimagnetic protection. The very well preserved case is waterproof and that was not common in these days !
THE STORY
Louis-Ulysse Chopard, the son of a farmer from Sonvilier, quickly conquered Switzerland and the world at the age of 24. The artisan watchmaker created works of art with innovative designs, which early on helped him export to such illustrious places like the court of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. Qualities like precision and reliability were very sought-after characteristics in watches, dating all the way back to the 19th century. With unique chronometers and pocket watches, Louis-Ulysse Chopard aimed to fulfill and exceed these "desires".
Chopard is one of the last family-run watchmaking and jewelry company. Karl-Friedrich, who managed the men's collections, developed sports watches during the 1980s and the Chopard Manufacture in Fleurier, which produces the L.U.C movements, in the 1990s.
THE DATA
- Maker: L.U.C. (Louis Ulysse Chopard)
- Model: Military 'Teardrop Lugs'
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: 226xx
- Year: 1943
- Material: Steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 33x43x11mm
- Caliber: L.U.C. (Base FHF 175)
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This exclusive military watch is in extremely good condition, the L.U.C. movement is decorated with 'Côtes de Genève' and show no rust or corrosion at all. This is an elegant and rare watch. A nice presence on the wrist due to the 'Teardrop lugs', despite a 33mm case. This timepiece is rare and perfect for every day wear.
1944 Omega Suveran - Ref. 2400-7
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A rare and attractive Omega made on request for the Swedish government during WW2.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific Omega model is considered a rare and highly collectible item. The Omega Suveran was made on demand by the Swedish government in the early 1940s in order to finance the armed forces as an alternative to war bonds. This model was sold only in Sweden and this particular watch is in a pristine condition after 74 years !
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Suveran
- Reference: 2400-7
- Case N°: 272
- Movement N°: 10500XXX
- Year: 1944
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x42x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 30T2 PC AM
- Bracelet/Strap: Black nylon NATO
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the black dial with original lume looks great. This is a fine vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1955 Universal Geneve Polerouter Automatic - Ref. S 20217 5
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One of the very first Polerouters manufactured, a couple of months after its launching.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by a young Gerald Genta, the Polerouter with its revolutionary design is a welcome addition to any collection. This Polerouter Automatic, one of the first produced, boasts a robust stainless-steel case with a silver glossy dial. The overall condition is exceptional, the case was never repolished and the back cover still has its beautiful sunburst finish preserved. This particular model with the 'Bumper' automatic movement was produced only for one year (From 11/1955 to beginning 1956).
Reference: Same watch ref. sold at Christies in 2016 for 4.250€
THE STORY
The Polerouter was designed in 1954 by a 24-years-old named Gerald Genta, the very same man who, almost 20 years later, would design the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. The Polerouter was launched in november 1954 to honor a pioneering flight over the North Pole by a SAS crew, hence its name. It was fitted with a bumper movement like the one you see here, later it was replaced by the caliber 215.
1894 The origins
Talented watch makers Numa Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret, found a company specializing in making complicated watches. Foreign trade develops rapidly and products are enthusiastically received.
1897 Early successes
Descombes dies and Perret associates with Louis Edouard Berthoud in making complete pocket-watches. In 1898 they present a chronograph with 30-counter, the Universal Watch Extra, and subsequently release their first wristwom chronograph in 1917.
1934 A legend in the making
The company is renamed Universal Watch, relocates to Geneva and enjoys impressive and international growth. A succession of elegant and complicated models — the Compax, Aero-Compax and Tri-Compax (1930-40), Polerouter (1954) and Microtor UG66 (1966) — leave and indelible imprint on their area.
1960’s A brand on the move
In keeping with its taste for innovation, Universal Genève launches the world’s thinnest quartz calibre in 1975. During the 1980s and 90s, the brand enjoys an impressive international reputation and its represented in South-East Asia, the Middle East and Italy.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Polerouter Automatic
- Reference: S 20217 5
- Case N°: 17326xx
- Year: 1955
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x10mm
- Caliber: 138SS
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This unrepolished watch is in incredible condition for its age. The case back is very well preserved and the glossy silver dial looks great. This is a classic vintage legenday Polerouter, nice presence on the wrist and perfect for everyday wear.
1954 Omega Genève Dresswatch with Diamond Indexes - Ref. 2748-5
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A fine and rare Omega dresswatch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific stainless steel Omega houses the very famous antimagnetic caliber 266. This very clean movement based on the legendary 30T2, features a Breguet hairspring and 17 jewels, it's production stopped in 1963. The perfect balance of the rare dial, with four diamonds indexes (Round brilliant cut) and crosshair makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Genève Diamond Dial
- Reference: 2748-5
- Year: 1954
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 36x44x9mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 266
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in excellent condition. The case is well preserved, and the original eggshell dial with applied steel markers and round diamonds looks great. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant, pure and rare, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1954 Omega Waterproof 'Big Eye' - Ref. 2791-5
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A fine and rare Omega Waterproof.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific stainless steel Omega houses the very famous antimagnetic caliber 266. This very clean movement based on the legendary 30T2, features a Breguet hairspring and 17 jewels, it's production stopped in 1963. The perfect balance of the original dial, with the 'Big Eye' subdial makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Waterproof 'Big Eye'
- Reference: 2791-5
- Serial: 143865XX
- Year: 1954
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 36x44x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 266
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in excellent condition. The case is well preserved, and the original light brown dial with its 'Big Eye' subdial looks great. The original lume matching perfectly the hands is present. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant, sporty and rare, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1990' Chopard 'Tank' Large Mechanical Movement - Ref. 2112 1
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An fine and elegant Chopard 'Tank'
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The 'Tank' model has become one of the most iconic and elegant watch design since its launch about 100 years ago. The example we have here features a large solid 18k yellow gold case with a hand wound mechanical movement, making it an ideal dress watch.
THE STORY
Louis-Ulysse Chopard, the son of a farmer from Sonvilier, quickly conquered Switzerland and the world at the age of 24. The artisan watchmaker created works of art with innovative designs, which early on helped him export to such illustrious places like the court of Tsar Nicholas II of Russia. Qualities like precision and reliability were very sought-after characteristics in watches, dating all the way back to the 19th century. With unique chronometers and pocket watches, Louis-Ulysse Chopard aimed to fulfill and exceed these "desires".
Chopard is one of the last family-run watchmaking and jewelry company. Karl-Friedrich, who managed the men's collections, developed sports watches during the 1980s and the Chopard Manufacture in Fleurier, which produces the L.U.C movements since the 1990s.
THE DATA
- Maker: Chopard
- Model: Tank large
- Reference: 2112 1
- Case N°: 1105xx
- Year: 1990'
- Material: Solid 18k Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 25x33x6mm
- Caliber: Chopard 895 mechanical
- Bracelet/Strap: Black lthereas
- Lug width: 19mm
- Box/Papers: Original Chopard box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition. The solid gold case and the original dial are very well preserved. This is an elegant and sharp watch. A nice presence on the wrist, perfect for every day wear and formal occasions. This timepiece comes with it's original new Chopard box.
1966 Zenith Respirator 28800 Automatic aka 'Kennedy'
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A very early and iconic 'Kennedy' Respirator 28.800 Bph
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This particular Respirator is one of the very first that was manufactured: The inner back is still engraved with the patent application 14031/63 (Demande de Brevet 14031/63) and the movement engraved with both Movado and Zenith (These two brands were owned by yhe same company).
The Respirator is one of the rare square watches that is water resistant, relying on the very same construction found in the Heuer Monaco and the one offered for sale is powered by a high-beat (28,800/bph) cal. 2542 PC movement, which, along with the 2572, was the last of the long-standing series of Zenith automatic full-rotor movements which emanated from the original cal. 2522 (circa 1954). The 2562 is a truly excellent performer, and well-capable of attaining chronometer status.
The 2542 PC has 23 jewels, a 48 hour power reserve, and beats at 28,800/bph. It features a screwless Glucydur balance and fine regulator adjustment by eccentric screw. It winds on ball bearings via a click-wheel switcher on the crown wheel.
THE STORY
The Respirator was one of Zenith's signature lines in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its square shape was definitely distinctive, and so was its case design; it consisted of a two-piece case, in which the upper piece sat on a seal and became tighter against the base piece as the pressure increased. This was a similar system to that used for the Heuer Monaco, as both cases were manufactured by Ervin Piquerez SA. The watch came with an automatic caliber and a vast array of dial configurations, but the silver sunburst is one of our favorites. The Respirator is an unusual watch with a seducing and quirky mechanism, and it happens to look great on the wrist.
THE DATA
- Maker: Zenith
- Model: Respirator 28800 Automatic
- Reference: 14031/63 6-65
- Case N°: 393A1XX
- Year: 1966
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 30x40x11,5mm
- Caliber: In house Automatic Movado/Zenith
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
The square case is in sharp condition, and has kept its original angles nicely. The original silver dial is perfect. The watch comes with a new black leather strap. The crystal is 'bombé' just as it should be, the crown signed, all parts are original. It has a cool and elegant presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1966 - Omega Seamaster Calendar Automatic + Box - Stainless steel - Ref. 166.002
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific Omega Seamaster Calendar ref. 166.002 features the very famous 19.800 beats/hour automatic caliber 562. This very clean movement is considered to be one of the best ever produced by Omega. The original 'Sunburst' dial has it's beautiful silver white color preserved. The case just like the movement are in excellent condition. This nice timepiece, just serviced, keeps excellent time and is guaranteed for 1 year.
It comes with it's original 1966 Omega box.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
Maker: Omega
Model: Seamaster Calendar Automatic
Reference: 166.002
Year: 1966
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions (WxHxT): 35x41x11mm
Caliber: In House Omega 562
Movement N°: 23.035.9XX
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
Lug width: 18mm
Box/Papers: Original 1966 Omega box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The case and movement are in very well preserved condition, and the silver white dial with applied markers and 'Sunburst' reflects looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear. The watch is guaranteed for 1 year and comes with it's original Omega box.
1960 Omega Seamaster Calendar Automatic - Ref. 14770 1 SC
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An attractive and fine famous Omega seamaster.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific Omega Seamaster Calendar ref. 14770 1 SC was produced only for a one year period, in 1960, and it features the very famous 19.800 beats/hour automatic caliber 562. This very clean movement is considered to be one of the best ever produced by Omega. The original 'Sunburst' dial has it's beautiful silver white color preserved. The 'Unishell' case has never been repolished, the angles are sharp, the crown is signed and the overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster Calendar Automatic
- Reference: 14770 1 SC
- Year: 1960
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x11mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 562
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The unpolished case is very well preserved, and the silver white dial with applied markers and 'Sunburst' reflects looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1964 Omega Seamaster 30 'Linen Dial' - Ref. 135.007-64
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A fine Seamaster 30 with a beautiful 'Linen textured' dial
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The Omega Seamaster range was created in 1948 but the first Omega Seamaster 30 was introduced in 1962. The "30" refers to the size of the movement, this specific Omega Seamaster 30 houses a caliber 286, produced only from 1963 to 1966, it is the very last version of the legendary 30SC. As one of the very first Seamaster 30, the caseback has the flat etched seahorse logo, later it was replaced by the protruding seahorse, more common. The original 'Linen textured' silver white dial with applied silver markers is very well preserved, with its original lume matching the silver hands. The crown and the crystal are Omega signed, the overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster 30
- Reference: 135.007-64
- Serial: 210680xx
- Year: 1964
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x41x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 286
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The unpolished case is very well preserved, and the silver white dial with silver applied markers looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1937 Universal Geneve 'Top Hat' for Hermès
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This isn't just any vintage Universal Genève. No, it's manufactured by them and retailed only by Hermès in France (as you can see on the advertisement). Hermès is the most famous and elegant French brand and they asked Universal Genève to manufacture their watches between 1936 and 1940.
THE STORY
Thierry Hermès was born in Krefeld, Germany, to a French father and a German mother. The family moved to France in 1828. In 1837, Hermès first established a harness workshop in the Grands Boulevards quarter of Paris, dedicated to serving European noblemen. He created high-quality wrought harnesses and bridles for the carriage trade, winning several awards including the first prize in its class in 1855 and again in 1867 at the Expositions Universelles in Paris.
Hermès's son, Charles-Émile, took over management from his father in 1880 and moved the shop to 24 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, where it remains. With the help of his sons Adolphe and Émile-Maurice, Charles-Émile introduced saddlery and started selling his products retail. The company catered to the élite of Europe, North Africa, Russia, Asia, and the Americas. In 1900, the firm offered the Haut à Courroies bag, specially designed for riders to carry their saddles with them.
After Charles-Émile Hermès's retirement, sons Adolphe and Émile-Maurice took leadership and renamed the company Hermès Frères. Shortly after, Émile-Maurice began furnishing the czar of Russia with saddles. By 1914, up to 80 saddle craftsmen were employed. Subsequently, Émile-Maurice was granted the exclusive rights to use the zipper for leather goods and clothing, becoming the first to introduce the device in France. In 1918, Hermès introduced the first leather golf jacket with a zipper, made for Edward, Prince of Wales. Because of its exclusive rights arrangement the zipper became known in France as the fermeture Hermès (Hermès fastener).
Throughout the 1920s when he was the sole head of the firm, Émile-Maurice added accessories and clothing collections. He also groomed his three sons-in-law (Robert Dumas, Jean-René Guerrand, and Francis Puech) as business partners. In 1922, the first leather handbags were introduced after Émile-Maurice's wife complained of not being able to find one to her liking. Émile-Maurice created the handbag collection himself.
In 1924, Hermès established a presence in the United States and opened two shops outside of Paris. In 1929, the first women's couture apparel collection was previewed in Paris. During the 1930s, Hermès introduced some of its most recognized original goods such as the leather "Sac à dépêches" in 1935 (later renamed the "Kelly bag" after Grace Kelly) and the Hermès carrés (square scarves) in 1937.
The scarves became integrated into French culture. In 1938, the "Chaîne d'ancre" bracelet and the riding jacket and outfit joined the classic collection. By this point, the company's designers began to draw inspirations from paintings, books, and objets d'art. The 1930s also witnessed Hermès's entry into the United States market by offering products in a Neiman Marcus department store in New York; however, it later withdrew. In 1949, the same year as the launch of the Hermès silk tie, the first perfume, "Eau d'Hermès", was produced.
From 1936, Hermès employed Swiss watchmaker Universal Genève as the brand's first and exclusive designer of timepieces, producing a line of men's wrist watches (manufactured in 18K gold or stainless steel) and women's Art Déco cuff watches in 18K gold, steel, or platinum. Both models contained dials signed either "Universal Genève", "Hermès" or "Hermès Universal Genève", while the watch movements were signed "Universal Genève S.A.". The Hermès/Universal partnership lasted until 1940.
Émile-Maurice summarized the Hermès philosophy during his leadership as "leather, sport, and a tradition of refined elegance.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Hermès 'Top Hat'
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: 675xxx
- Year: 1937
- Material: 18k Solid Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 24x32x10mm
- Caliber: In House UG 256
- Bracelet/Strap: Black custom made leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the original black dial with gold hands matching the indexes looks great. This is a rare Universal Genève / Hermès with a very elegant Art Déco design. The case has an elegant presence on the wrist, this refined watch can be worn everyday and for more formal occasions.
1967 Bulova Accutron Astronaut (GMT) - Ref. 11305
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The watch chosen by the CIA for pilots of the fastest plane ever made.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Here is an extract from the letter written by Frank Murray (LtCol, USAF):
"The A-12 airplane first flew in april 1962; several years of developmental testing took place before the airplane flew its reconnaissance role in the far east. This airplane operates at speeds well above Mach 3 (2100 mph) at altitudes up to 90.000 feet.
The environmental conditions inside the cockpit saw temperatures as high as 140 degrees at end of cruise legs when the fuel remaining was insufficient to provide the needed heatsink for the airconditioning system.
Ordinary wristwatches worn by the pilots on the outside of their pressure suits were not holding up to these temperatures. A decision was made to try a unique type of watch in this setting. The Bulova Accutron Astronaut model held up to testing, so the CIA decided to furnish the Bulova watch to the CIA pilots flying the A-12.
The CIA provided each pilot with a new Bulova Astronaut watch. These watches became the property of the pilots and they stayed with the pilots whan the program ended in mid 1968."
THE STORY
The Accutron movement developped by Bulova has no balance or balance spring, it uses a tuning fork oscillator, driven by a transistor controlled circuit. The Accutron 214 movement vibrates at 360 Hz and uses a button-cell battery. This was at the time a wonder of miniaturization and micro-engineering, with parts so fine that they are invisible to the naked eye. Because they would run on electric power with no requirement of a mainspring made them highly suitable for use in aerospace applications.
THE DATA
- Maker: Bulova
- Model: Accutron Cosmonaut (GMT)
- Reference: 11305
- Case N°: D347xx - M7
- Year: 1967
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 38x40x14mm
- Caliber: In House Accutron 214
- Bracelet/Strap: Black Nylon NATO
- Lug width: 17mm
- Box/Papers: Original Bulova box
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredibly good condition for its age. The impressive 38mm Stainless Steel case is extremely well preserved. The black unrefinished dial is stunning. This is a great vintage legendary watch featuring a very useful second time hand and a 24Hrs rotating bezel. It has a nice presence on the wrist an can be worn daily.
1960 Omega Seamaster - Ref. 14390-7-SC
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A fine and legendary Omega Seamaster with screw-down caseback
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. This particular example has the screw-down caseback that guarantees a perfect resistance to humidity and features the seahorse in relief (Previous models had a snap-on caseback and a seahorse engraved). The well preserved case houses the high quality 285 Omega caliber, The caliber 285 is based on the 30T2, a legend among calibers but, improved, has a ring instead screw balance.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. What distinguished the Seamaster from its diving watch predecessors was its O-ring gasket which improved its water-resistance. Previously water-resistant watches relied on lead or shellac gaskets which were easily affected by temperature changes like those a diver would experience at various depths. Omega turned to the submarines used during WWII for inspiration and included a resilient rubber gasket in the Seamaster’s final design. This new case remained intact at depths up to 60 meters and temperature ranges between -40 degrees and 50 degrees Celsius.
Omega engineers was so confident of the Seamaster’s durability, they attached one to the outside of an aircraft and flew it over the North Pole in 1956.
The Seamaster was a watch for customers who wanted something for town, sea and country and took inspiration from the watches Omega produced for the British military in World War II. These 'watch wristlet waterproof' or w.w.w watches were more utilitarian in design than the first Seamasters but the basic elements remained the same: Solid case construction, legible dials and a world class movement inside. The tradition of Seamaster dress watches continued throughout the 1940s all the way to present day.
The Omega Seamaster received a major boon when it was selected as the James Bond watch. Although James Bond’s author Ian Flemming included a Rolex watch in his novel and even wore a Rolex himself, Omega pushed Rolex out of the film as the costume designer noted Omega was more historically relevant to the British Royal Navy and, in turn, the James Bond character. Therefore, Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond wore an Omega Quartz Seamaster Professional 300 in the film Golden Eye in 1995. For the next three Bond films, Brosnan sported the Omega Seamaster Automatic Chronometer in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).
When actor Daniel Craig was cast as the next James Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, he wore an Omega Seamaster. Craig donned a Seamaster again for Quantum of Solace (2008) and a Seamaster for Skyfall (2012). In celebration of the 24th Bond film, Spectre (2015), and a 20 year-long partnership with the Bond franchise, Omega released the special edition Seamaster Spectre which harkened back to the original Bond Seamaster.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster
- Reference: 14390-7-SC
- Year: 1960
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x44x11mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 285
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in exceptionally good condition for its age. The unrepolished case and original dial are very well preserved, the angles are still sharp. This is a fine high-quality classic vintage timepiece, elegant and with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1942 Omega Officer - Ref. 2299
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A rare and attractive Omega made on request for the Swedish Officers during WW2.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific Omega model is considered a rare and highly collectible item. The Omega Officer was made on demand by the Swedish government during WW2 for the Swedish Officers . This model was manufactured by Omega only for this purpose and this particular watch is in a pristine condition after 76 years !
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Officer
- Reference: 2299
- Case N°: N/A
- Year: 1942
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 31x40x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 26,5
- Bracelet/Strap: Black "Bund" Leather
- Lug width: 16mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the black dial with original lume looks great. This is a fine vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1963 Chronographe Suisse - Oversized 38mm - NEW OLD STOCK
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A Mint and Rare oversized chronograph with screwed back and round pushers
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This Chronographe Suisse is powered by the very popular Landeron 48, used by many famous brands, such as Breitling, Baume & Mercier, etc... Here is a stunning and super clean example of a rare stainless steel screwed back with round pushers, the vast majority of the 'Chronographe Suisse' were manufactured with chrome plated cases, square pushers and clipped bottom.
This is one amazingly attractive timepiece.
THE STORY
The Landeron company began in 1873,formed by Charles Alfred Hahn and his brother Aimé Auguste Hahn, and called Charles Hahn & Cie. They produced watches at first, but moved into watch movement production in the 1920's.
In 1924, Charles Hahn (son of the founder, who died in 1875), acquired the patents of Anatole Breitling and began producing chronograph movements. This movement production company took the name, Landeron. In 1925, Landeron merged with Fabrique d'Horlogerie de Fontainemelon (FHF), being renamed Fontainemelon et succursale du Landeron. FHF/Landeron became a founding member of Ebauches SA in 1926.
Landeron's column wheel chronograph movements were famous, and the company supplied these movements to many militaries. Examples include Cal. 11 and 13 and the state-of-the-art Cal. 39. Because they held the Breitling patents, Landeron was the exclusive supplier of column wheel chronograph movements until their expiration in the 1930's.
Just before World War II, Landeron developed the first cam actuated chronograph. Their Cal. 47 had three pushers: One to start, another to stop, and a third to reset the counter. They refined this movement to become the two-pusher Cal. 48. This would become one of the most popular chronograph movements ever made, with more than 3.5 million examples produced between 1937 and 1970. The lower price of production compared to a column wheel model meant an average person could afford a chronograph for the first time.
In the 1960's, Landeron produced the first Swiss electric movement, Cal. 4750. It featured a battery-powered balance wheel rather than a mainspring.
THE DATA
- Maker: Chronographe Suisse
- Model: Oversized
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: N/A
- Year: 1963
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxT): 38x45x12,5mm
- Caliber: Landeron 48
- Bracelet/Strap: Genuine leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This chronograph is in new condition. All parts are untouched and unpolished, the sharp angles are preserved. The blue tachymetric scale combined with the red telemetric scale gives an unbeatable touch to the pristine silvered dial. It has a very elegant and sporty presence on the wrist an can be worn daily.
1962 Omega Seamaster 30 - Ref. 125.003-62
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A fine Seamaster 30 from it's first year production
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The Omega Seamaster range was created in 1948 but the first Omega Seamaster 30 was introduced in 1962. The "30" refers to the size of the movement, this specific Omega Seamaster 30 houses a caliber 269, produced only from 1962 to 1966 featuring the famous Breguet spiral. As one of the very first Seamaster 30, the caseback has the flat etched seahorse logo, later it was replaced by the protruding seahorse, more common. The original dial has it's beautiful silver white color with applied gold markers well preserved. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster 30
- Reference: 125.003-62
- Year: 1962
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x43x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 269
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the silver white dial with goldapplied markers looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1955 Universal Geneve Polerouter Automatic - Ref. S 20217 4
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by a young Gerald Genta, the Polerouter with its revolutionary design is a welcome addition to any collection.
THE STORY
The Polerouter was designed in 1954 by a 24-years-old named Gerald Genta, the very same man who, almost 20 years later, would design the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. The Polerouter was launched in november 1954 to honor a pioneering flight over the North Pole by a SAS crew, hence its name. It was fitted with a bumper movement like the one you see here, later it was replaced by the caliber 215. This Polerouter Automatic, one of the first produced, boasts a robust stainless-steel case with a black glossy dial.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Polerouter Automatic
- Reference: S 20217 4
- Case N°: 171xxx0
- Year: 1955
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x10mm
- Caliber: 138SS
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved with very light scratches throughout, and the black dial looks great.This is a classic vintage legenday Polerouter, perfect for everyday wear.
1966 Omega Seamaster Automatic Calendar - Ref. 166.002
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific Omega Seamaster ref. 166.002 was produced only from 1962 to 1966 and it features the very famous 19.800 beats/hour automatic caliber 562. This very clean movement is considered to be one of the best ever produced by Omega. The original dial has it's beautiful silver white color preserved. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster Automatic
- Reference: 166.002
- Year: 1966
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x42x11mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 562
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. The case is well preserved, and the silver white dial with applied markers looks great. This is a fine classic vintage timepiece, elegant and sporty, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1944 Chronographe Suisse solid Pink Gold Military Chronograph - Oversized 38mm
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A very well preserved and Rare oversized military chronograph in 18k Solid Pink Gold
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This Chronographe Suisse is powered by the very popular Landeron 48, used by many famous brands, such as Breitling, Baume & Mercier, etc... Here is a stunning and clean example of a rare 18k solid pink gold with black dial, the vast majority of the 'Chronographe Suisse' were in yellow gold.
This amazingly attractive timepiece was manufactured by the renowned firm Guillod Gunther S.A. (Hammer hallmark 117). This particular chronograph features a telemetric (military) and tachymetric scale.
THE STORY
The Landeron company began in 1873,formed by Charles Alfred Hahn and his brother Aimé Auguste Hahn, and called Charles Hahn & Cie. They produced watches at first, but moved into watch movement production in the 1920's.
In 1924, Charles Hahn (son of the founder, who died in 1875), acquired the patents of Anatole Breitling and began producing chronograph movements. This movement production company took the name, Landeron. In 1925, Landeron merged with Fabrique d'Horlogerie de Fontainemelon (FHF), being renamed Fontainemelon et succursale du Landeron. FHF/Landeron became a founding member of Ebauches SA in 1926.
Landeron's column wheel chronograph movements were famous, and the company supplied these movements to many militaries. Examples include Cal. 11 and 13 and the state-of-the-art Cal. 39. Because they held the Breitling patents, Landeron was the exclusive supplier of column wheel chronograph movements until their expiration in the 1930's.
Just before World War II, Landeron developed the first cam actuated chronograph. Their Cal. 47 had three pushers: One to start, another to stop, and a third to reset the counter. They refined this movement to become the two-pusher Cal. 48. This would become one of the most popular chronograph movements ever made, with more than 3.5 million examples produced between 1937 and 1970. The lower price of production compared to a column wheel model meant an average person could afford a chronograph for the first time.
In the 1960's, Landeron produced the first Swiss electric movement, Cal. 4750. It featured a battery-powered balance wheel rather than a mainspring.
THE DATA
- Maker: Chronographe Suisse
- Model: Military Oversized Rose Gold
- Reference: 96
- Case N°: N/A
- Year: 1945
- Material: Solid 18k Pink Gold
- Dimentions (WxT): 38x44x12mm
- Caliber: Landeron 48
- Bracelet/Strap: Genuine leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This military chronograph is in very well preserved condition, the sharp angles and gold hallmarks are preserved. The black dial with pink gold markings, matching the case gives an unbeatable touch to this elegant chronograph. It has a very sophisticated and sporty presence on the wrist an can be worn daily.
1945 Universal Geneve Gentleman's Watch - Ref. 21036
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève is famous for their creativity in case and dial designs. This particular watch has a very special and elegant combination, this incredibly well preserved watch has never been repolished and the dial is original and perfect. The condition and the scarce model make it truly a collector's timepiece.
THE STORY
Universal Genève has been on the up and up over the past few years and it's easy to see why. The Swiss manufacture consistently produced beautiful complicated watches . This example feature a perfect balance of elegance and refinement.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Classical Square with curved lugs
- Reference: 21036
- Case N°: 1124xxx
- Year: 1945
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 27x32x10mm
- Caliber: In House UG 260
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown aligator leather
- Lug width: 17mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredibely good condition for its age. The stainless steel case is well preserved and has never been repolished. The unrefinished dial with silver numbers matching the leaf hands is very elegant. This is a great wristwatch, elegant and rare. Witness of an era with it's special case, it has a nice presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1966 Universal Geneve Polerouter Super - Ref. 869112/22
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by a young Gerald Genta, the Polerouter with its revolutionary design is a welcome addition to any collection. This Polerouter Super Automatic is based on the original Genta styling but with a contemporary design, Powering the watch is the famous in-house cal. 69 micro-rotor movement. Introduced in 1962, this movement is the best known iteration of Universal Genève's micro-rotor system, featuring a "stop oil" chemical treatment to prevent oil from shifting, reducing service intervals, and a 55 hour power reserve ! A high-grade caliber with a proven track record of performance, significally more advanced than it's rival the Rolex Submariner. It features a screw-down crown for water resistance.
THE STORY
The Polerouter was designed in 1954 by a 24-years-old named Gerald Genta, the very same man who, almost 20 years later, would design the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. The Polerouter was launched in november 1954 to honor a pioneering flight over the North Pole by a SAS crew, hence its name. It was fitted with a bumper movement, later it was replaced by the caliber 215. This Polerouter Super houses the the best known iteration of Universal Genève's micro-rotor system, the famous caliber 69 micro-rotor, beatifully decorated with 'Côtes de Genève'.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Polerouter Super
- Reference: 869112/22
- Case N°: 2533xxx
- Year: 1966
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35,5x42x11mm
- Caliber: Universal Genève 69
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition. The case and original dial are well preserved, all parts are original, the crown is signed just as the original crystal with the logo etched in the center. This is a classic vintage legenday Polerouter, with a nice presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1962 Omega Seamaster Automatic Waterproof - Ref. 165.001
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A fine and legendary Omega Seamaster Automatic with screw-down caseback
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. This particular example has the screw-down caseback that guarantees a perfect resistance to humidity and features the seahorse in relief (Previous models had a snap-on caseback and a seahorse engraved). The well preserved case houses the high quality 552 Omega automatic caliber, The caliber 552 is very similar to the caliber 551 introduced in 1959. The main difference is, that the 551 holds an exclusive C.O.S.C for the Constellation market introduction. Like the 551, the 552 features a swan neck regulator, 24 jewels, great bi-directional winding, plain glucydur balance, 19'800 bph, first flexible spring block for easier regulation, power reserve over 50 hours due to a main spring with 7 evolutions. The 552 is actually one of the most accurate movements, and with the swan neck fine regulator, many examples still run within less than a second a day tolerance !
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. What distinguished the Seamaster from its diving watch predecessors was its O-ring gasket which improved its water-resistance. Previously water-resistant watches relied on lead or shellac gaskets which were easily affected by temperature changes like those a diver would experience at various depths. Omega turned to the submarines used during WWII for inspiration and included a resilient rubber gasket in the Seamaster’s final design. This new case remained intact at depths up to 60 meters and temperature ranges between -40 degrees and 50 degrees Celsius.
Omega engineers was so confident of the Seamaster’s durability, they attached one to the outside of an aircraft and flew it over the North Pole in 1956.
The Seamaster was a watch for customers who wanted something for town, sea and country and took inspiration from the watches Omega produced for the British military in World War II. These 'watch wristlet waterproof' or w.w.w watches were more utilitarian in design than the first Seamasters but the basic elements remained the same: Solid case construction, legible dials and a world class movement inside. The tradition of Seamaster dress watches continued throughout the 1940s all the way to present day.
The Omega Seamaster received a major boon when it was selected as the James Bond watch. Although James Bond’s author Ian Flemming included a Rolex watch in his novel and even wore a Rolex himself, Omega pushed Rolex out of the film as the costume designer noted Omega was more historically relevant to the British Royal Navy and, in turn, the James Bond character. Therefore, Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond wore an Omega Quartz Seamaster Professional 300 in the film Golden Eye in 1995. For the next three Bond films, Brosnan sported the Omega Seamaster Automatic Chronometer in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).
When actor Daniel Craig was cast as the next James Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, he wore an Omega Seamaster. Craig donned a Seamaster again for Quantum of Solace (2008) and a Seamaster for Skyfall (2012). In celebration of the 24th Bond film, Spectre (2015), and a 20 year-long partnership with the Bond franchise, Omega released the special edition Seamaster Spectre which harkened back to the original Bond Seamaster.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster Automatic
- Reference: 165.001
- Year: 1962
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34,5x39x10mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 268
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in exceptionally good condition for its age. The case is very well preserved and unrepolished , the original silver 'Sunburst' dial with applied silver markers looks dashing. This is a fine high-quality classic vintage timepiece, elegant and with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1961 Omega Seamaster Automatic Waterproof - Ref. 14700 SC-61
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A fine and legendary Omega Seamaster Automatic with screw-down caseback
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. This particular example has the screw-down caseback that guarantees a perfect resistance to humidity and features the seahorse in relief (Previous models had a snap-on caseback and a seahorse engraved). The well preserved case houses the high quality 552 Omega automatic caliber, The caliber 552 is very similar to the caliber 551 introduced in 1959. The main difference is, that the 551 holds an exclusive C.O.S.C for the Constellation market introduction. Like the 551, the 552 features a swan neck regulator, 24 jewels, great bi-directional winding, plain glucydur balance, 19'800 bph, first flexible spring block for easier regulation, power reserve over 50 hours due to a main spring with 7 evolutions. The 552 is actually one of the most accurate movements, and with the swan neck fine regulator, many examples still run within less than a second a day tolerance !
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chax de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
The first Omega Seamaster was modeled after the waterproof wristwatches made for and worn by the British military during World War II. What distinguished the Seamaster from its diving watch predecessors was its O-ring gasket which improved its water-resistance. Previously water-resistant watches relied on lead or shellac gaskets which were easily affected by temperature changes like those a diver would experience at various depths. Omega turned to the submarines used during WWII for inspiration and included a resilient rubber gasket in the Seamaster’s final design. This new case remained intact at depths up to 60 meters and temperature ranges between -40 degrees and 50 degrees Celsius.
Omega engineers was so confident of the Seamaster’s durability, they attached one to the outside of an aircraft and flew it over the North Pole in 1956.
The Seamaster was a watch for customers who wanted something for town, sea and country and took inspiration from the watches Omega produced for the British military in World War II. These 'watch wristlet waterproof' or w.w.w watches were more utilitarian in design than the first Seamasters but the basic elements remained the same: Solid case construction, legible dials and a world class movement inside. The tradition of Seamaster dress watches continued throughout the 1940s all the way to present day.
The Omega Seamaster received a major boon when it was selected as the James Bond watch. Although James Bond’s author Ian Flemming included a Rolex watch in his novel and even wore a Rolex himself, Omega pushed Rolex out of the film as the costume designer noted Omega was more historically relevant to the British Royal Navy and, in turn, the James Bond character. Therefore, Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond wore an Omega Quartz Seamaster Professional 300 in the film Golden Eye in 1995. For the next three Bond films, Brosnan sported the Omega Seamaster Automatic Chronometer in Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999) and Die Another Day (2002).
When actor Daniel Craig was cast as the next James Bond for 2006's Casino Royale, he wore an Omega Seamaster. Craig donned a Seamaster again for Quantum of Solace (2008) and a Seamaster for Skyfall (2012). In celebration of the 24th Bond film, Spectre (2015), and a 20 year-long partnership with the Bond franchise, Omega released the special edition Seamaster Spectre which harkened back to the original Bond Seamaster.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Seamaster Automatic
- Reference: 14700 SC-61
- Year: 1961
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x43x11mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 552
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in exceptionally good condition for its age. The case is very well preserved and unpolished , the original silver 'Sunburst' dial with applied silver markers and 'Dauphine' faceted hands looks dashing. This is a fine high-quality classic vintage timepiece, elegant and with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1961 Omega Classical Dresswatch - Ref. 2894
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This specific solid gold Omega houses the very famous antimagnetic caliber 267. This very clean movement based on the legendary 30T2, features a Breguet hairspring and 17 jewels, it's production stopped in 1963. The perfect balance of the dial, with a large subdial, and the thin case makes it a timeless elegant classical wristwatch. The overall condition is stunning.
THE STORY
Omega's rich history begins with its founder, Louis Brandt, who established the firm in 1848 in La Chaux de Fonds. In 1903, the company changed it's name to Omega, becoming the only watch brand in history to have been named after one its own movements. A full-fledged manufacturer of highly accurate, affordable and reliable watches, its sterling reputation enabled them to be chosen as the first watch company to time the Olympic Games beginning in 1932. Its continued focus on precision and reliability ultimately led their Speedmaster chronograph to be chosen by the NASA in 1965, the first watch worn on the moon.
THE DATA
- Maker: Omega
- Model: Classical
- Reference: 2894
- Year: 1961
- Material: Solid yellow gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x41x9mm
- Caliber: In House Omega 267
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in mint condition. The case is extremely well preserved, and the original white dial with applied gold markers looks great. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant and pure, with a presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear.
1947 Vulcain Cricket MK1 'The President's Watch'
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A fine and extremely well preserved iconic wristwatch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
In 1947 Vulcain launched the first ever mechanical alarm movement, which soon achieved worldwide fame. The legendary Cricket calibre took flight before finding its place in the history books as “The Presidents’ Watch”. American heads of state Dwight Eisenhower, Harry Trumann, Richard Nixon and Lyndon Johnson all wore a Vulcain on their wrist, a fact that earned the brand its prestigious reputation. But the technical qualities of Vulcain watches also appealed to explorers and adventurers. From the 1950s onwards, the brand in Le Locle was to partner famous mountaineering and maritime expeditions.
This particular Vulcain Cricket is in 'Museum Condition', the overall condition is stunning, 100% original and working like when it was manufactured 73 years ago !
THE STORY
Vulcain’s history started in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, in 1858 when the two brothers Ditisheim founded their workshop for high-end pocket watches. Their exquisite work not only earned them several World Fair medals, but also created a need for a brand name that they could use to sell their products all over the world. In 1898 they adopted the name Vulcain. This is the French name for the Roman god Vulcan, ruler of fire and volcanoes, and often connected to gold- and blacksmiths.
It was Robert Ditisheim, one of the brother’s son, who took on the challenge of creating the first alarm wristwatch. An interesting fact about the Cricket was that its development started in 1942, in the midst of WWII. This almost makes one wonder
whether its original purpose was military rather than civilian. The development took 5 years in which many obstacles had to be taken. The main challenge was to create an alarm that was loud enough. Vulcain achieved this by creating a mechanism where a hammer hits a membrane. This sound is then amplified by the double case back which acts as a resonance chamber. A designated barrel for the alarm function ensures that the alarm sounds for at least 20 seconds when fully wound. The name Cricket comes from the sound that the alarm makes; quite similar to that of the little insect that shares the same name.
The Cricket got a warm welcome once it was released. Especially in the United States it was embraced by the public. True fame came for the Cricket when the White House Press Photographer’s Association presented President Harry S. Truman with a Vulcain Cricket. President Truman was the first of three US Presidents that actively wore their Cricket, the others being President Dwight D. Eisenhower and President Lyndon B. Johnson. Johnson was even such a fan of the Cricket that during his presidency he gave about 200 Cricket’s away as presents.
THE DATA
- Maker: Vulcain
- Model: Cricket MK1
- Reference: N/A
- Year: 1947
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x43x12,5mm
- Caliber: In House Vulcain 120
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredible condition. The unpolished case is very well preserved, and the original two-tone dial with original lume present looks great. This is a fine classic timepiece, elegant and convenient, perfect for everyday wear.
1955 Universal Geneve Polerouter Automatic - Ref. S 20217 5
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Designed by a young Gerald Genta, the Polerouter with its revolutionary design is a welcome addition to any collection. This particular model with the 'Bumper' automatic movement was produced only for one year (From 11/1955 to beginning 1956).
Reference: Same watch ref. sold at Christies in 2016 for 4.250€
THE STORY
The Polerouter was designed in 1954 by a 24-years-old named Gerald Genta, the very same man who, almost 20 years later, would design the legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. The Polerouter was launched in november 1954 to honor a pioneering flight over the North Pole by a SAS crew, hence its name. It was fitted with a bumper movement like the one you see here, later it was replaced by the caliber 215. This Polerouter Automatic, one of the first produced, boasts a robust stainless-steel case with a silver glossy dial.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Polerouter Automatic
- Reference: S 20217 5
- Case N°: 1715xxx
- Year: 1955
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 34x40x10mm
- Caliber: 138SS
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 18mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in very good condition for its age. The case is well preserved with very light scratches throughout, and the silver dial looks great. This Polerouter is still in it's original condition with the signed crown and especially the unfindable original crystal with the Universal Genève logo etched in the center.This is a classic vintage legenday Polerouter, perfect for everyday wear.
2000s Cartier Tank Solo Large - Ref. 2715
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The Cartier Tank has become one of the most iconic and elegant watch design since its launch about 100 years ago. The example we have here features an oversized stainless steel case with a nice Art-Deco touch, making this an ideal dress watch.
THE STORY
The design of the Tank was inspired by the armored vehicles that proved essential during World War I. It is stunning that such an industrial inspiration led to such an elegant watch, which remains timeless 100 years later. Cartier offered many variations of the Tank model, and we have a soft spot for the Solo version with the subtile silver dial and flat case which gives to it an Art-Deco scent. Of course, you have the black Roman numerals, blued hands and cabochon sapphire that made the legend of Cartier.
THE DATA
- Maker: Cartier
- Model: Tank Solo
- Reference: 2715
- Case N°: 281xxxPL
- Year: 2000s
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 27,5x35x5,5mm
- Caliber: Cartier 690 Quartz
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in overall very good condition. The back of the case has still its original brushed finish and the watch comes with a new black leather strap with its original Cartier stainless steel folding clasp. The saphire crystal is flat at the level of the case just as it should be. It has a nice presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
1932 Universal Geneve Curvex Art-Deco
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WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève is famous for their creativity in case and dial designs. This particular watch has a very special and elegant combination, this very early Universal watch has never been repolished and the two-tone dial is original. The condition and the scarce model make it truly a collector's timepiece.
THE STORY
Universal Genève has been on the up and up over the past few years and it's easy to see why. The Swiss manufacture consistently produced beautiful complicated watches . This example feature a perfect balance of elegance and refinement.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Curvex Art-Deco
- Reference: N/A
- Case N°: 523xxx
- Year: 1932
- Material: 18k Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 22x37x7mm
- Caliber: In House UG 15J
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Lug width: 17mm Fixed bars
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in incredibely good condition for its age. The solid 18k yellow gold case is well preserved and has never been repolished. The unrefinished dial with Art-Deco design matching the blued steel sword hands is dashing. This is a great wristwatch, elegant and rare. Witness of an era with it's special curvex hingedcase, it has a nice presence on the wrist an can be worn daily and for more formal occasions.
