Watch: Gents 1940s Pierce Chronograph Watch

UK Postage Only For This Item The watch company Pierce was founded in 1883 in Biel (Switzerland) by Leon Levy and his brothers under the name Léon Lévy Frères Manufactures des Montres et Chronographes Pierce Sa. This model of chronograph was the official pilots’ watch of the Trans Caribbean Airlines during the late 1940s / early 1950s. The watch has a Swiss 17-jewel hand-winding movement, believed to be the calibre 134 which was introduced in the 1940s, which is working nicely. The movement is signed Pierce Watch Co Inc. The watch measures 37mm diameter excluding the crown, buttons and lugs. The case is plated, there is a little wear and marking but overall good condition for such an early piece. The stainless steel case back is stamped Breveté Sgdg, this was a French type of patent that ceased to exist in 1968. The name was a common abbreviation for “Breveté Sans Garantie Du Gouvernement”. The lens is in good condition. The signed dial is in its original finish with original hands (the infill has been removed over the years). There is some age related darkening to the dial, and some fading to the numbers. The dial states that the watch is waterproof but, as with any vintage watch, it should be kept away from water and moisture. The chronograph is stopped and started with the bottom button, and the top button re-sets the main chronograph and 60 minute register sub dial to zero. The watch has an extra long vintage leather strap. The watch comes in a new presentation box. All prices include UK postage (excluding Northern Ireland). All of our watches are checked over before listing, and are also checked for accuracy which is usually within around +/- two to three minutes over 24 hours (unless otherwise stated), which is considered respectable for a vintage watch. We are a Vat registered company and all purchases are covered by Consumer Regulations. Credit / debit card purchases can be made over the telephone on 01386 750238 or you can proceed via the red 'Buy Now' button on each listing page. We are an on-line only business and do not have facilities for callers. Our offices are open from Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. With regards to appraisals / valuations, we receive a huge number of information requests each day and unfortunately do not have the manpower to deal with them all individually. Our advice would be to contact a local auctioneer for a full appraisal.