Helvetia watches are an interesting brand with a loyal following, if a little ‘under the radar’. This gold watch would fit nicely into anyone’s collection.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the London hallmark on the inside of the case back we can accurately date this watch to being assayed in 1948. This also fits the production dates of the movement and the styling.
CONDITION
If you have not heard of Helvetia you may have heard of Omega? Helvetia was founded a little later than Omega in 1880 by Louis Brandt, the founder of Omega, as a different brand of watches. The two companies parted long before this watch was made, but you can read a lot more about Helvetia from this fantastic website that we have bookmarked for future reference.
Inside the gold case is an in house manual wind movement, calibre 800C. This seventeen jewel, shock protected movement is running well. The case is in three parts, with the bezel a different colour to the rest of the watch -more od a standard yellow gold to the rest of the watch which is more rose gold. This could be done by using a different 9k gold – by definition 9k gold is 37.5% minimum gold, so you have 62.5% of other metal to form the gold, and if you change the materials you change the colour. It isn’t hugely noticeable on the wrist, but we want to make sure people are aware. There is a dent on the non crown side, and the case back has numerous small dents that do not affect how it clips together nor do they affect the movement. The dial has light and even patination, but no significant marks or damage. The hands, including the red central seconds hand, appear original when compared against other watches. The stepped lugs are a nice design feature. The strap is good quality and lightly used.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 31.5 mm
Width without crown 32.5 mm
Between lugs 16 mm
Lug to lug length 40.5 mm
Case Thickness 10.5 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 2 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
