This rare, over-sized (40 mm) steel, pre Extra-Fort Eberhard chronograph from the 1940s is remarkably well-preserved. It carries a rare and original copper-ring dial, in excellent condition, given the age of the watch. This example also retains its original case back, with the last three digits of the serial number matching those engraved on the reverse of one of the lugs.

In 1887, Georges Eberhard founded the Swiss watch manufacturing company Eberhard & Co. in La Chaux-de-Fonds. In 1919, the company presented its first wrist-chronograph, featuring a hinged-case with articulated lugs, and a chronograph operated with a single button. Eberhard produced a variety of high-quality wristwatches throughout the early-to-mid 1900s, considered some of the most visually-striking and technically brilliant of the period. The term 'pre Extra-Fort' is a phrase coined by collectors, classifying watches that came before the Extra-Fort model, introduced in the 1950s.

Observed in this pre Extra-Fort chronograph, are many of the characteristics which distinguished Eberhard from their competitors during the 1930s and 40s. The off-white dial is well proportioned, with two registers for constant seconds and 30 minute tracking, as well as a beautifully contrasting copper-ring. It features a 'snail' tachymeter scale on the inner section of the dial, while the outer-track denotes a telemeter measure, offering balance and legibility. Complimenting this classical timepiece is the addition of syringe hands, which have aged to a dark blue colour. The late-art-deco style of the Eberhard logo makes interesting use of typography, while the “La Chaux-de-Fonds” signature below takes inspiration from early Eberhard pocket watches.

While the artistic, purposeful aesthetics of this watch are undeniable, the technical aspects of the piece are equally noteworthy. The watch houses a calibre 16000 column-wheel chronograph movement, which hides an interesting technical feature. The bottom chronograph pusher is in-fact a slide-lever, which locks the chronograph pusher when not in use. When the slide is moved upwards, the precise time is protected, allowing this to be recorded by the user. This was designed to prevent accidental activation of the chronograph’s pushers, which would result in losing exact measurement. The upper chronograph button starts, stops and resets the chronograph.

This Eberhard pre Extra-Fort example retains both its original crown, as well its original chronograph pushers. The watch is fitted with an open-ended, goat leather strap and tang buckle.

Viewings can be arranged in Central London by appointment.