Vintage Watches

SOLD - Scarce & Complicated Vintage 1940s Movado Triple Calendar in Stainless Steel Caliber 470

SKU: 3021
$995.00
$995.00
Unavailable
This Movado Triple Calendar caliber 470 vintage 1940s has a stunning white dial (depending on lighting may also appear silver or grey as shown in pictures) and is a WWII era favorite among military officers.  In fact, the watch was so initially successful, Tiffany commissioned Movado to make the watch for them exclusively in the late 1940s with "Tiffany" printed on the dial of course.  Unfortunately, it seems very few of these fine early Movado examples of this complication had survived through the years making this watch tough to find.  Measuring in at approximately 32.5MM not including the crown, the watch wears larger than most its size and has great substance.  Furthermore, this watch features a screw down case back which is uncommon for it's age.  This was another feature that was meant to attract its use as a military instrument since a screw down case back was better than a snap back with regards to water resistance.  A screw down case back also required a heavier gage case which made the watch stronger and able to withstand abuse. This fine Movado is engraved on the case back.   Typically, we avoid engraved case backs on vintage watches unless the engraving adds value or the watch is worthwhile regardless.  In this case, both exceptions are true.  We believe the details of the engraving on this piece adds great value and historical details to the piece.  Engraving:  "Philip W Blake Jr." "Andover, MASS" "7-21-43".  Historical records show that Mr. Blake likely had a military service history during WWII and was a Reverend in Andover, MA for many years.  I'm sure there is much more to know about Mr. Blake and this level of detail on a watch engraving makes it an interesting piece that makes you wonder who was the man behind the watch - but more importantly, this level of detail allows you to research it if you wish.

Overall, this is a very fine piece of WWII era watchmaking.  This Movado triple calendar is appropriate as a casual or dress watch and may be worn with any attire.  

Note added 1/13/2014: Base Movement for cal 470 is a design from  Frédéric Piguet with a Breguet hairspring
Out of stock