SPECIFICATIONS
Absolutely stunning no-signature chronograph with a 14K yellow gold case and glossy galvanic black dial, manual-winding Valjoux 222 flyback chronograph movement inside, from the early 1950s.
14K yellow gold case measuring 35mm x 43mm
Original crown
Original olive-shaped pushers
Original plastic crystal
Valjoux 222 Flyback movement inside
ANALYSIS
When you look at this watch, you feel like you’re looking at a black hole with its golden “event horizon”. The stunning black dial seems to swallow light from all directions, and the spiraling progression of its golden scales toward the center enhances this sensation.
The unsigned dial is exquisitely crafted and perfectly preserved on its galvanic black background with gold graphics. It’s the most perfect “glossy” dial you’ll ever see. It’s simply perfect. The Arabic numerals are enclosed between two scales: the outer telemeter scale and the inner spiral tachometric scale. The hour and minute hands are shaped like gold leaves.
The case – which is the “event horizon” – is a three-piece construction, forming a compact cylindrical body. On the right side stand the winding crown and the soft, untouched olive-shaped pushers for activating the chronograph functions. The drum-shaped body of the case ends in two beautiful semicircular hooded lugs, thus hiding the bracelet attachment from view. Traces of the oxidation that gold typically acquires when left untouched are still visible on its surface. This wonderful case was produced in La Chaux-de-Fonds by the Gindraux & CO workshops (hammerhead hallmark no. 119).
Beneath the caseback of this stunning chronograph lies another exceptional feature: the manually wound Valjoux 222 movement with flyback function. Its condition is exceptional: the levers have retained their surface satin finish, and all the screw heads of the mechanism remain untouched.
