Bovet - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII Hong Kong Thursday, November 25, 2021 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Bovet
    Year: Circa 1940s
    Reference No: 5347
    Case No: 5783
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 38mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1936, Bovet created and patented a “mono-rattrapante” chronograph system that acted similarly to a split-seconds mechanism, however without the heavy cost to manufacture. The mechanism was operated through the top chronograph button, while the lower button would stop it and when released allowed the time to catch up to the actual time. This was done via tension in a hairspring that built up as the chronograph button was held, and when released the hairspring unwound.

    The present example features a beautiful and intense “tropical” brown dial that has aged consistently and uniformly. With original radium luminous material on the dial, the Geiger reading is indeed impressive. With an exemplified vintage appeal with a case design typical of the respective era, the present tasteful example is surely impress vintage chronograph collectors.

  • Artist Biography

    Bovet

    Swiss • 1822

    The firm Bovet 1822 has a rich, centuries-long history beginning when Edouard Bovet sold four decorative pocket watches in Canton Asia for what would today equal $1 million. By 1822, Edouard, with his brothers, registered the company in London, which at the time was an important center for watches and clocks. That same year, they moved their manufacturing center to the Swiss municipality Fleurier. Bovet became known for their highly decorative pocket watches for the Chinese market. Their richly engraved movements were so important to the watch that Bovet created the concept of the transparent watch back so owners could see the beauty of the movement. Bovet's oversized chronograph wristwatches, such as the Mono Rattrapante chronograph, are especially sought-after. Today, the firm continues their tradition of exquisitely enameled watches.

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Property from a Japanese Collector

949

Ref. 5347
An attractive and rare stainless steel mono-rattrapante chronograph wristwatch with tachymeter scale and “tropical” gilt dial

Circa 1940s
38mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$78,000 - 120,000 
€8,700-13,300
$10,000-15,400

Sold for HK$107,100

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIII

Hong Kong Auctions 25-26 November 2021