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FROM AN IMPORTANT ASIAN COLLECTOR

941

Bovet

Ref. 5347

A very attractive and rare stainless steel mono-rattrapante chronograph wristwatch with tropical dial

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In 1936, Bovet created and patented a “mono-rattrapante” chronograph system that acted similarly to a split-seconds mechanism, however without the heavy cost to manufacture. The mechanism was operated through the top chronograph button, while the lower button would stop it and when released allowed the time to catch up to the actual time. This was done via tension in a hairspring that built up as the chronograph button was held, and when released the hairspring unwound.

The present example is one of the best to be offered at auction. Not only is the case unpolished, but the dial has aged to a lovely brown over the years, adding charisma to an already beautiful watch. Crisp and clean, with part of the case number stamped to the underside of the lug “779”, this watch is an excellent example of early 20th century innovation.

Bovet

Swiss | 1822

The firm Bovet 1822 has a rich, centuries-long history beginning when Edouard Bovet sold four decorative pocket watches in Canton Asia for what would today equal $1 million. By 1822, Edouard, with his brothers, registered the company in London, which at the time was an important center for watches and clocks. That same year, they moved their manufacturing center to the Swiss municipality Fleurier. Bovet became known for their highly decorative pocket watches for the Chinese market. Their richly engraved movements were so important to the watch that Bovet created the concept of the transparent watch back so owners could see the beauty of the movement. Bovet's oversized chronograph wristwatches, such as the Mono Rattrapante chronograph, are especially sought-after. Today, the firm continues their tradition of exquisitely enameled watches.

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