A truly rare and superb example of a first world war doctors trench style wristwatch produced by the Longines Watch Co of Switzerland for retail by the West End Watch Co. Not only does this early wristwatch house the rare Longines calibre 13.33 center seconds movement, but it also features a near mint fancy enamel dial with outer seconds track, red 12 and medical cross details. The West End Watch Co, would have commissioned Longines to manufacture a series of these watches specifically for them which is why both the dial and movement are signed with their name. This example, while it has seen a lot, is still in amazing overall condition and after a full service by our watchmaker is keeping good time 94 years after it was made!!
Style: Early Wristwatch, Trench Watch
Circa: 1918
Case: Solid sterling silver 3-piece snap back case with wire lugs and glass crystal measuring 35mm in diameter excluding the original crown. This case is still in great shape at 95 years old, has no major dents or scratches but is missing its inner dust cover. Inside the hinged back is stamped F6145 and hallmarked 0.925 with a 3,716,XXX serial number which matches the number on the original movement.
Dial: Original white enamel dial with outer 1/5 seconds track, black with red 12 numbers and red cross symbol at 6:00. Signed West End Watch Co, Extra, Swiss Made. Incredible condition with no hairlines cracks or chips, WOW!! The blue steel hands are also in great condition with only a bit of minor corrosion as is the unique red center seconds hand.
Movement: Rare indirect center seconds Longines caliber 13.33 manual wind movement signed West End Watch Co. Swiss Made with the caliber number stamped just adjacent to the balance on the lower plate. The serial number also matches the case to confirm its originality. Fully serviced by our watchmaker and in excellent working condition. That said, I would not recommend this as an every day wear kind of timepiece as it is very old and parts are very hard to find if anything does get damaged.
Strap: Beautiful high quality vintage "trench watch" style genuine leather strap with 12mm central band and wide fancy shape backing provided by David Boettcher at www.vintagewatchstraps.com. These are the best you can buy for this style of wire lug wristwatch and a joy to wear.