Established in 1932 by Georges Gagnebin and Armand Nicolet in the Jura mountains of Switzerland, G. Gagnebin & Cie used the brand name Niga to produce interesting and often architectural chronograph wristwatches during the middle of the last century, as well as precision chronometers and pocket watches. Rarely offered at auction, the ones that can be found display a wide variety of dial types and case shapes.

Regardless of the name that graces the dial, the present “time capsule” watch is a phenomenal execution of mid-century chronograph design, preserved in “new old stock”, unused condition. The dial bears a tachymeter and telemeter scale, both rendered in copper gilt text, contrasting against the two-tone dial – glossy black to the outer rim and an anthracite grey inner dial. A pink gold bezel is engraved and enameled in blue, indicating the hours. The main part of the case is ruggedly geometric, with sharply downturned lugs and rectangular pushers. The engravings to the caseback are deeply punched and perfectly crisp – a clear indication of its pristine state of preservation.

First offered at auction at Phillips in 2015, its appearance 8 years later presents an outstanding opportunity for collectors seeking an unusual yet extraordinary vintage chronograph wristwatch.