Why This Watch Matters This Mulco may draw you in with a large water-resistant case, but it will win you over with its Art Deco numerals and two-tone dial blocking. The Full Story Mulco is one of our favorite brands that remains a bit under the radar even to the most well-read and experienced collectors. This company represents a different time in Swiss watchmaking history where, in the middle of the market and at accessible price points, watches were being made under a few dozen brand names, using the same case makers, the same dial makers, and the same off-the-shelf movements. Dissimilar to the reasons for outsourcing in modern markets, this use of third party manufacturers was, many times, an upgrade in quality and allowed these smaller brands to focus on unique designs rather than reinventing the wheel in manufacturing. Looking at vintage examples that pop up for sale today, it seems Mulco focused on chronographs during the few decades they were in operation from the 1940s through the 1960s. The brand was founded in 1936 and later succumbed to the quartz crisis, going out of business in the early 1970s. By utilizing cases made by Spillmann, a leading manufacturer of early water-resistant chronograph cases, and movements by Valjoux, Venus, and Excellsion Park, Mulco put together some of the most robust chronographs coming out of Switzerland, all without much manufacturing prowess. Where the brand differentiates itself is in dial design. Although their dials were likely outsourced to a leading dial maker, Mulco would have worked on a contract basis with much of the design control. The example we have for sale this week is a perfect representation of Mulco as a brand as well as the middle market of Swiss watch manufacturers during the mid–20th century. The case is not overtly marked as Spillmann-made but stamped with the same outer caseback markings as most water-resistant Spillmann cases. Given the known ties between the two brands, this case is likely the work of Spillmann. Inside is a Venus 150, a column wheel chronograph movement introduced in 1936 that was utilized by many brands such as Breitling, Gallet, and Nivada and is known to be very reliable while easily serviceable. This Mulco stands out from a crowd thanks to the beautifully designed dial with two-tone finishing and Art Deco style numerals for hour markers. We paired this Mulco with our Textured Light Grey Calfskin Watch Strap to match the dial finishing and add an additional element of depth. The Fine Print Maker: MulcoModel: N/AReference: 281 103Year: Circa 1940sCase No: 1880Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: No Caliber: Venus, manually-wound, caliber 150Bracelet/Strap: Textured Light Grey Calfskin Watch StrapLug Width: 19mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This Art Deco-inspired chronograph is in overall great and honest condition. The case is strong with light scratches and what appears to be original finishing on all surfaces, though it was probably lightly polished in the past. The stamping on the caseback is clearly visible, including the reference number. The caseback has some scratches. The dial is in good condition with a bit of patina on the surface and small scratches when viewed under a loupe. There is some noticeable patina near the one o'clock hour marker. The hands and metallic hour markers have developed some patina. The dial, case, and movement are all signed by Mulco. This. watch is referred to as a "Waterproof" chronograph, but we do not recommend getting wet or submerging in water. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
