Vintage Anonymous Monopusher Chronograph – Lemania 16′”, 1920s, Hand Finishes, Serviced, Enamel

There’s a lot we don’t know about the history of horology due to the fact that timekeeping has existed, in one form or another, for longer than we can remember. The 1920’s, for example, are a period shrouded in mystery. With almost every family and house in Switzerland somehow engaged in the art of making watches or watch parts, a lot of pieces with untraceable origins were being assembled. The common practice for a lot of watchmakers in those days was to leave their movements and dials unbranded, rendering us clueless to their conception. That is, more or less, the story behind the piece on offer here. It’s powered by the rare Lemania 16″‘, which comes encased in an immaculate trench-style case. The dial is made of white enamel and is covered in extremely sharp and precise red & black writing. The finishing of the movement is a testament to the craftsmanship that went into producing the piece, as is the magnificent crown, which also includes a pusher for the chrono. In fact, every single surface of the movement is hand-finished, which is something one would expect from brands such as Patek Philipe or Vacheron Constantin, but rarely from an unbranded watch. While the term Haute Horologerie is usually reserved for brands of that caliber, this unique watch certainly fits the profile. Our guess is that it was made to order by one of the famous master artisans of the time. It has undergone professional servicing and is ticking accurately and harmoniously. Shows some normal wear and the only thing worth mentioning is that the minutes hand is cut in half – Still in all original condition. Comes on a stylistically-appropriate leather strap.

The watch is covered by 1 year of limited warranty, starting on the date of purchase.