c. 1919 Eberhard Vintage Extra-Large Mens Sporting / Aviator's Single Button Chronograph - 18K Gold
Today's offering showcases an original and quite large for the era c. 1919 Eberhard single-button chronograph in 18K rose with enamel dial. Some call it a "pre-Extra Fort" but that is painting with much too wide of a brush.
Eberhard & Co., founded in 1887 by the visionary Georges-Emile Eberhard in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, quickly established itself as a model of horological innovation and craftsmanship. The company's early years coincided with the Belle Époque, a period marked by a burgeoning appreciation for intricate and luxurious timepieces. Eberhard's dedication to precision and quality resonated with the era's ethos, propelling the brand to prominence both domestically and internationally.
Within only 20 years, Eberhard & Co. had expanded significantly, inaugurating a grand headquarters adorned with a distinctive turret crowned by an eagle, symbolizing the brand's soaring ambitions and achievements. A photo of it is in our listings. This architectural gem stood not only became a landmark in La Chaux-de-Fonds but also housed the company's museum, chronicling its rich journey through the 20th century. The untimely passing of Georges-Emile in 1919 led to his sons, Georges and Maurice, assuming leadership, ensuring the continuation of their father's legacy.
Eberhard's early creations showcased a relentless pursuit of technical excellence. In 1894, the company introduced a Lépine-style pocket watch featuring a porcelain dial and elegant Louis XV hands, distinguished by its remontoire alarm function—a groundbreaking innovation at the time.
A pivotal moment in Eberhard's history was the 1919 release of one of the earliest wrist-worn monopusher chronographs. It is the model offered today in this auction.
This timepiece featured a porcelain dial adorned with a snail tachymeter scale and Breguet numerals, reflecting a harmonious blend of aesthetic elegance and functional prowess. Its substantial case diameter and subtle hinged lugs echoed the design language of contemporary pocket watches, underscoring the transitional phase in horology from pocket to wrist-worn watches. This model not only highlighted Eberhard's innovative spirit but also secured its esteemed position in the burgeoning market for wristwatches, particularly those tailored for sporting events and precise time measurements.
The 1919 Eberhard monopusher chronograph stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to horological excellence. Its historical significance, coupled with its timeless beauty and skilled craftsmanship, makes it a coveted piece among certain collectors. Owning such a watch is not simply about but embracing a rich legacy of innovation and artistry that Eberhard & Co. embraced with many of their vintage watches.
We are pleased to offer it in excellent all-original condition even down to its original crown.
Its 40mm case, which fits in very well with today's sensibilities, is in excellent condition. It has only very slight pin prick and ripples in the soft back as is common with these and light wear to the lugs.
Its beautiful original enamel dial presents as mint to the naked eye. It has one extremely faint short hairline near seven only visible under magnification with close scrutiny.
One of our Master Watchmakers has disassembled it down to the last screw and serviced it (a $995 value). After more than a century, it continues to run unexpectedly strong and true, keeping very accurate time in our testing recording position. The chronograph resets crisply and to a perfect zero.
For the finishing touch, we have equipped it with a brand new leather strap designed for fixed lug watches making it ready for immediate enjoyment.
Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. international warranty on the movement and its function, a full-page custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.
Country of origin: Switzerland
Year built: c. 1919
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Chronograph, Subsidiary Seconds
Designed for: Men
Case material: 18K gold
Case condition: Excellent condition
Dimensions: 40mm diameter wide (without crown), 53mm long lug tip-to-tip
Dial: Signed Eberhard, white enamel with Breguet Arabic indexes, telemeter and tachymetre scales, outer 1/5 second markings, original and untouched, presents as mint to the naked eye. It has one extremely faint short hairline near seven only visible under magnification with close scrutiny.
Hands: Original, blued steel "Breguet moons"
Band: Leather, designed for fix lug watches, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn
Width between lugs: 19mm
Movement type: Eberhard based on Landeron/Hahn 6 ebauche, capable of timing events up to 30 minutes in duration, 1/5 second register, crown wheel and carrying arm, rhodium plated
Crystal: Mineral glass, excellent condition
Serviced: One of our Master Watchmakers has disassembled it down to the last screw and serviced it (a $995 value). After more than a century, it continues to run unexpectedly strong and true, keeping very accurate time in our testing recording position. The chronograph resets crisply and to a perfect zero.
Timing: After more than a century, it continues to run unexpectedly strong and true, keeping very accurate time in our testing recording position. The chronograph resets crisply and to a perfect zero.
Warranty: 1-year C.O.T. international warranty.
Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity
Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee 
