CIRCA: 1940s
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIAMETER: 37 mm.
BRACELET MATERIAL: Stainless steel, unsigned
BRACELET SIZE: Approx. 200 mm. overall length
DIAL: Salmon
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Mono-Rattrapante
BOX: No
PAPERS: No

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Lot Essay

The present watch features a particularly fascinating and rare complication, a 'mono-rattrapante'. With a mechanically straightforward yet clever design, the mono-rattrapante accomplishes the same functionality as a traditional split-seconds chronograph while using only a single seconds hand and a more intricate mechanical system.

This inventive mechanism, which was patented in 1936, enables the wearer to start the chronograph by pressing a pusher at two o'clock. The chronograph hand can then be temporarily stopped at four o'clock to record an intermediate time. When released, the hand quickly 'catches up' to show the total amount of time that has passed.

Beyond its mechanical ingenuity, the watch captivates the eye with its exquisite salmon dial and blue steel hand, which give the watch a sophisticated vintage charm and enhance overall visual balance.

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Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Signs of ageing and scratches throughout. Oxidation and spots visible on the edge of the dial, and next to some numerals. Reacts well to Geiger counter. Reacts to UV light.
Case: Scratches and dents. Signs of previous polishing. Caseback with scratches and dents. Serial number is visible.
Bracelet: Unsigned. Many scratches and dents, some stretch.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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