Why This Watch Matters No one else will have one of these at the next get-together. The Full Story Swiss watchmaking school watches do not cross the HODINKEE vintage desk all too often. They offer this interesting subsect of vintage collecting that is surprising, excellent in quality, and difficult to source. If anyone tells you that vintage is all the big brands at this point, point them in the direction of a timepiece like this. The pocket watch we have here is the perfect example of the vintage market's depth. The story is often told that for a final examination in Switzerland, students were required to assemble a wristwatch from scratch using unbranded, off-the-shelf parts. Though, we think there was something special going on at this particular school in Bienne. Very, very few school watches, or watches of any kind, are executed to this level of quality. The Breguet style hands and Côtes de Genève finish on the movement are only the start. Looking at that striped movement we find a micrometric screw and swan neck spring regulator for fine adjustment as well as a lever escapement, a Breguet hairspring, and a large bi-metallic compensation balance wheel. Too long didn't read? This is a serious piece of watchmaking. Consider this a doctoral thesis more than an Econ 201 final exam. The Fine Print Maker: Chronomètre Technicum Cantonal BienneModel: Pocket WatchReference: N/AYear: 1950sCase No: N/AMovement No: 2897Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 49mm diameter; 12.3mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: N/ACaliber: Chronomètre Technicum Cantonal BienneBracelet/Strap: N/ALug Width: N/ABox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Blued-steel Breguet-style handset- Watchmaking school provenance- Swan neck regulator, lever escapement, Breguet hairspring, and bi-metallic balance Things To Know: - Light scratches on case- Very faint patina on dial near six o'clock This pocket watch is in overall great condition. The case appears to be probably unpolished and it's in strong condition with some scratches. The partial coin-edge finish on the band of the case remains crisp. The dial is in good condition with some patina and a few light scratches/ marks near the six o'clock area. The small seconds sub-dial has developed patina and has some wear and scratches. The hands and hour markers have developed some light patina. The dial and movement are signed by Chronomètre Technicum Cantonal Bienne.
