Vintage Watch Collecting: Beginner's Guide

Bruno.M1 · 2025-11-21T10:09:54Z

Explore the enduring charm of a vintage Leroy & Fils '35 Av. Opéra' monopusher chronograph. Bruno.M1 uncovers its history, craftsmanship, and the allure of authentic patina.

Bruno.M1

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

6 replies427 views21 photos

Bruno.M1 presents a fascinating exploration into a vintage Leroy & Fils monopusher chronograph, challenging conventional notions of horological value. His post delves into the allure of a century-old timepiece, despite its 'worn-out' condition, prompting readers to look beyond superficial aesthetics and appreciate the profound history and craftsmanship embedded within. This article highlights why some watches, even without haute horlogerie finishing, command admiration among collectors.

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And yet you cliked on it ;-)

There’s really nothing here worth getting excited about, no haute horlogerie, no fancy materials, no anglage or inward angles, no fine handwork.

Quite the opposite. It’s a worn-out piece with a completely deteriorated, oxidized dial and even rusty hands… good enough to throw straight in the trash.

Although an auction house would probably call it ‘patina’ ;-).

On top of that, it’s a ridiculous 32 mm, so absolutely unwearable for me.

But… and maybe this is just me, as a watch enthusiast I can NEVER just throw something away, no matter how rough its condition is. Everything has its own charm in my eyes. This Leroy & Fils ‘35 Av. Opéra’ is a monopusher chronograph that must be around 100 years old… probably made somewhere between 1925 and 1935, and that alone is enough to inspire some admiration.

By now, the history behind this chrono is actually quite impressive. And even though it’s not fine haute horlogerie, I’m fairly sure there’s more handcraft in this piece than in most modern watches.

Anyway, if you clicked to open this post and made it all the way here, then this small ugly thing must have caught your attention too.

So here are a few photos again… don’t expect anything, and just imagine the history behind it

Other than that, I can find relatively little information about this brand, so any additional info is welcome.

I did find two auctions where something similar was sold, although those two pieces were on a much higher level AND better condition in every respect and a gold case.

They also mention a Valjoux 88 movement, whereas I assume this steel one probably has a Landeron inside. Or am I mistaken? Possibly, a hundred years ago they used a nicer movement for the gold versions than for the steel ones.

Key Points from the Discussion

The original author clarifies that the AI summary's valuation of the watch was inaccurate, emphasizing the importance of critical assessment of AI-generated content, especially concerning market value.
The watch features a Landeron 13 single-button chronograph movement, a detail that provides specific technical insight into its construction.
A contributor raises a pertinent question about the rarity of monopusher chronographs in the current market compared to a century ago, suggesting a shift from purely functional design to modern marketing influences.
One collector expresses a preference for the original, worn condition of Bruno.M1's watch over examples found in better condition at auctions, highlighting an appreciation for authentic patina and history.

The Discussion

amanico

Nov 21, 2025

I have to confess, I like it, I find it full of charm, character and beautiful.

piccolochimico (aka dsgalaxy1)

Nov 21, 2025

I can’t help you for its past

But how rare are monopushers today? A century ago there were neither marketing no frills, a solid caseback with a reliable movement.

golden hands

Nov 21, 2025

landeron

LANDERON 13 single button chrono

quattro

Nov 21, 2025

I like what I see here.

And this worn and used piece looks better to me than the ones you’ve found sold at auctions. Best, Emmanuel

enjoythemusic

Nov 21, 2025

Wow, amazing timepiece. What did happen to them?

Bruno.M1

Nov 21, 2025

Well, we have always ChatGPT

But I always take it with a grain od salt cause ChatGPT makes quite some mistakes (definitely the last paragraph with a value estimation is a great joke. I'm not selling it but if one offered me this amount ... LOL ) The History of “Leroy & Fils / Le Roy & Fils” (35 Avenue de l’Opéra) This is a very interesting topic — the name Leroy & Fils , especially on watches marked “35 Av. Opéra,” has a rich and somewhat intertwined history. Below you’ll find a clear explanation of who “Leroy & Fils” w

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