Why This Watch Matters Made to meet CP-2 specifications for the Italian army, this is one cool looking tool watch. The Full Story The Italian army had excellent taste and chose Leonidas alongside comparable manufactures Universal Genève and Zenith to produce watches for its ranks. This Leonidas was made to meet CP-2 specifications from the Italian army, hence the obvious military look of its dial. The diameter here is 43mm, while the CP-1 norms called for sub-40mm watches (Leonidas also manufactured CP-1 chronographs). The Leonidas comes with a flyback complication performed by the Valjoux 222, also found in the Breguet Type 20 chosen by the French army. Not all Leonidas watches were issued to the army; a smooth caseback, as seen on this example, signals that it had a civilian destiny. But trust us, it does not make this chrono look any less sweet on the wrist. The Fine Print Maker: LeonidasModel: ChronographReference: CP-2Year: 1960sCase No: NAMaterial: Stainless steelDimensions: 43mm diameter; 12mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: TritiumCaliber: Manual-wound Valjoux 222 with flyback complicationBracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Distressed Grey Leather StrapLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know The black dial is in excellent condition, without any visible imperfections. The lumed numerals have taken a nice patina, matching that of the handset, which does not come with any lume breaks. The 43mm case exhibits nice lugs with sharp bevels, just as we like it. The caseback does not bear any military markings so we can safely assume that this watch was never issued to the armed forces. The bezel with oversized numerals is original to the watch but has a small ding on its edge. This is a great vintage tool watch in fantastic condition.
