This is a fantastic example of a 1940s Swiss chronograph imported into North America by Chase Watch Corp., with an exceptionally technical dial typical of the period. The combination of a telemeter, tachymeter, and two-register chronograph makes this a particularly interesting example of the era's fascination with precision timing.
The 31.2mm case measures 40.6mm lug-to-lug and 12.6mm thick, giving it surprisingly substantial wrist presence for its compact diameter. The angular lugs and stainless-steel case give it the unmistakable look of a vintage tool chronograph, while the aged silvered dial adds plenty of honest character.
The dial is where this watch really shines. Bold applied Arabic numerals surround the central timing track, with a red telemeter scale and blue tachymeter scale providing two different methods of measuring elapsed events. The 9 o'clock register records running seconds, while the 3 o'clock register records up to 30 minutes when the chronograph is engaged. The blue-steel hands and aged dial give the whole watch an unmistakably 1940s character.
Inside is the highly regarded Venus Cal. 170, a 17-jewel Swiss manual-wind chronograph movement. The movement is beautifully laid out and carries the Chase Watch Corp. Swiss markings, while the caseback is signed for Chase and finished with attractive engine turning. The column-wheel chronograph architecture is a particularly appealing feature for collectors of early Swiss chronographs.
Chase Watch Corp. was a New York-based importer that brought Swiss watches and movements to the American market during the first half of the 20th century. Watches like this are a great reminder of the interconnected Swiss-American watch trade, where specialist Swiss ébauches were paired with cases and dial configurations intended specifically for the North American market.
A superb vintage chronograph with a wonderfully complicated dial, an important Swiss movement, and the kind of aged character that makes 1940s watches so compelling.
This is a fantastic example of a 1940s Swiss chronograph imported into North America by Chase Watch Corp., with an exceptionally technical dial typical of the period. The combination of a telemeter, tachymeter, and two-register chronograph makes this a particularly interesting example of the era's fascination with precision timing.
The 31.2mm case measures 40.6mm lug-to-lug and 12.6mm thick, giving it surprisingly substantial wrist presence for its compact diameter. The angular lugs and stainless-steel case give it the unmistakable look of a vintage tool chronograph, while the aged silvered dial adds plenty of honest character.
The dial is where this watch really shines. Bold applied Arabic numerals surround the central timing track, with a red telemeter scale and blue tachymeter scale providing two different methods of measuring elapsed events. The 9 o'clock register records running seconds, while the 3 o'clock register records up to 30 minutes when the chronograph is engaged. The blue-steel hands and aged dial give the whole watch an unmistakably 1940s character.
Inside is the highly regarded Venus Cal. 170, a 17-jewel Swiss manual-wind chronograph movement. The movement is beautifully laid out and carries the Chase Watch Corp. Swiss markings, while the caseback is signed for Chase and finished with attractive engine turning. The column-wheel chronograph architecture is a particularly appealing feature for collectors of early Swiss chronographs.
Chase Watch Corp. was a New York-based importer that brought Swiss watches and movements to the American market during the first half of the 20th century. Watches like this are a great reminder of the interconnected Swiss-American watch trade, where specialist Swiss ébauches were paired with cases and dial configurations intended specifically for the North American market.
A superb vintage chronograph with a wonderfully complicated dial, an important Swiss movement, and the kind of aged character that makes 1940s watches so compelling.