1968 Leonidas (Pre-Heuer) Chronograph - Valjoux 72 - Stainless Steel - Top condition
A Fine, rare and very well preserved chronograph housing the legendary Valjoux 72 movement.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
First of all, this 1968 Leonidas chronograph was never polished, the angles are thus sharp and the case finish is original. Due to it's 57 years, there are of course some very minor scratches.
This is one of the last chonographs branded as 'Leonidas', later they were all branded 'Heuer-Leonidas', this specific timepiece houses the most famous chronograph movement; the Valjoux 72, that was used at the same time by Rolex for their Daytona's.
The overall condition is absolutely stunning, the dial perfect, with the original lume present.
THE STORY
The Leonidas Watch Factory traces its origins to 1841 in Saint-Imier, was merged with Heuer in 1964, and the brand was retired after the company became TAG Heuer in 1985. It was a large-scale producer of chronographs and stop watches and is associated with the Bourquin and Jeanneret families and Beau-Site area of the town. The brand was typically written as “Léonidas” through the 1930s, though the acute e was rarely used after this.
Young Jack W. Heuer saw Leonidas's business as complementary to his family firm. He acquired the company, and on January 1, 1964 the combined firm became Heuer-Leonidas. Berna remained in the hands of the Jeanneret family, and Leonidas became the junior brand to Heuer through the 1970s.
Heuer-Leonidas faced difficulties in the late 1970s and a stake was acquired in 1982 by Nouvelle Lemania. TAG invested in 1985 and it became TAG Heuer. The Leonidas brand was retired around this time.
THE DATA
- Maker: Leonidas
- Model: Valjoux 72
- Serial N°: 8476XX
- Year: 1968
- Material: Stainless steel
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 35x43x14mm
- Caliber: Valjoux 72
- Bracelet/Strap: Black leather
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
The overal original condition is extremely good, the original dial is mint, the lume on the hands and dial is complete. The angles are sharp and the satinated finish on the back and sides of the case is present.
The balance of the watch is elegant, classical and virile, all parts are original and there is, as usual a one year guarantee.
It has a virile and sporty presence on the wrist and can be worn daily.
