Manufacturer: Leonidas Year: Circa 1960 Case No: Military numbers 270254 Model Name: Tipo CP-2 Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. Valjoux 222, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 43mm Diameter Signed: Dial signed
Catalogue Essay
The Tipo CP-2 chronographs made by Zenith, Universal Genève and Leonidas for the pilots of the Italian Navy have enormously grown in popularity in recent times, most probably due to the large diameter and very masculine aesthetic.
The name “CP” refers to the fact that it is a wrist chronometer (Cronometro da Polso), with two versions known: 1 and 2, differing in size; 38mm the CP1 and 43mm the CP2.
The military vocation of the timepiece is reflected in its construction, featuring all the usual military requirements: military markings on the back - most notably the AMI (Aeronautica Militare Italiana) as well as the issuance number, a large, highly legible black luminous dial with broad hands, and a revolving graduated bezel. All these features are perfectly suited for the needs of the pilots during their flight missions.
The movement as well reflects the needs of military pilots, offering hack feature, for perfect time regulation and flyback chronograph for instantaneous reset.
Finally, a surprising clamshell case construction enables for reinforced water resistance.
The present watch will please the collector of military timepieces thanks to its overall excellent condition and highly charismatic aesthetics.