Why This Watch Matters This oversized 1940s Doxa has all the elements that collectors love in a vintage chronograph, including a multi-scale black dial with gilt print. But this one is rare with a water-tight, screw-down case. The Full Story Doxa has a reputation as a solid dive watch maker, but its origin goes all the way back to late 1800s when Georges Ducommun started his own company in the Jura region of Switzerland that was well known for watchmaking. His claim to fame was his newly patented eigh-day watch movement in 1908. From that point on, his company expanded into various forms of timekeeping instruments focusing on demands of that era, from producing ladies watches to becoming the supplier for Bugatti’s automotive timekeeping needs for their race cars. Doxa producing a military-style chronograph in the 1940s made complete sense. There were similar models made by Rolex, Omega, Universal Genève, and several other major watchmakers at the time. The 38mm oversized case is notably a water-tight case with a screw-down caseback, which was fairly unusual at the time; “IMPERMEABLE,” the French word for "waterproof," is also noted on the dial. The dial is a beautiful combination of black and gilt, which is considered to be one of the most beloved color ways for vintage timepieces. Also, the multi-scale configuration, especially the concentric tachymeter scale in the middle, makes the dial stand out considerably. In addition, the lume on the numerals brings an honest grit to the watch that we can't resist. The Fine Print Maker: DoxaModel: ChronographReference: N/AYear: Circa 1944Case No: 4454321Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 38mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: RadiumCaliber: Valjoux 22Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Dark Brown Kangaroo NATO Watch StrapLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: NA What we Love and What You Should Know The watch is in very good overall condition. The case shows some surface scratches and nicks, especially towards the end of the lugs, as expected on a watch from this era. The tips of the lugs have started to show some roundness. While the edges of the case are still visible, it may have been lightly polished at some point in time. The punched case number is still very strong on the caseback. The black surface of the dial shows light aging but is otherwise in excellent condition with crisp gilt printing. The lume on the numerals has turned very dark, and the handset shows some oxidation. The movement is in running condition and the chronograph is starting, stopping, and resetting correctly at this time.
