Zenith CP-2 Cairelli: Provenance vs. Condition

amanico · 2018-11-07T14:11:16Z

Zenith CP-2 Cairelli: debate on pristine vs. military-issued condition. Explore provenance, auction house reputation, and collector preferences.

Amanico presents two Zenith CP-2 Cairelli chronographs, sparking a discussion about the value of pristine condition versus military provenance and character. The post questions whether an unissued, immaculate example holds the same appeal as a watch with visible signs of its military history.

I saw a nice Cairelli on the net, soon to be auctioned by Antiquorum, by the way.

As you can see, it is in mint condition. But that raises a question:

The watch is supposed to be issued to the Italian Army, and to have a military number engraved below " A. Cairelli Roma ".

Something like MM xxx

If I got it well, if the number is not engraved, that means that the watch was not delivered to the Italian Army. Which explains its pristine condition.

When the condition is too good, is it still more interesting?

Personally, I don't think so, and I would much prefer something like this:

Credit pictures: Song.

Here, the military number exists and the scars add some soul and character to a watch which is supposed to have soul and character.

What do you think?

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

A Zenith CP-2 Cairelli lacking the military engraving 'MM xxx' on its caseback indicates it was likely not delivered to the Italian Army, explaining its pristine condition.
The absence of military markings on a Cairelli, while suggesting pristine condition, can detract from its historical authenticity and character for some collectors.
The reputation of auction houses, specifically Antiquorum, is questioned due to past incidents involving misrepresentation of watches and handling of stolen property.
The discussion highlights the importance of provenance and condition in vintage military watches, with some collectors preferring a watch with 'scars' that tell its story.
The Zenith CP-2 Cairelli looks versatile on various straps, including a leather NATO and a dark grey crocodile strap, showcasing its adaptability to different styles.

The Discussion

Cpt Scarlet

Nov 7, 2018

If it’s to good to be true it often is !...

give me patina every time

amanico

Nov 7, 2018

Same here, and a few scars, too. ;) [nt]

Cpt Scarlet

Nov 7, 2018

I could be real as the Italian Army never did very much. [nt]

No message body

nomadgiles

Nov 7, 2018

🤣

Maybe the watch gearing is in reverse too 😉

andrewluff

Nov 9, 2018

Now that made me laugh out loud!!! :)

Unless it was bashing it on an espresso cup or when cleaning sunglasses... it should be pristine.

Cpt Scarlet

Nov 9, 2018

That just about sums it up 👍 [nt]

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Zenith forum with 31 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

Zenith CP-2 Cairelli: Provenance vs. Condition

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

Related Articles