Observatory dial watches
What is commonly referred to as an " observatory dial " is the dial of a watch equipped with a precision movement , designed and adjusted to pass observatory tests , whether in Besançon , Neuchâtel , Geneva , Kew , Glashütte , etc. Its most complete layou...
Thank you, Orahu!
Unfortunately, I have no further information concerning the history of this VC: when and for who this chronometer movement was fitted in such a case. I would have to ask @artmgraver (Shiming Yang) on IG. Best, Emmanuel
Yes, almost certainly cased later, like the Patek Champion and
most other observatory movements. I believe many were never cased, just remaining as chronometer movements. But I have no further information on this VC: I would have to ask its owner, @artmgraver (Shiming Yang), on IG. Best, Emmanuel
Thank you! I didn't know these watches.
I wonder what is the exact difference between chronometers and observatory watches. I would think that "chronometer" implies a COSC or METAS certification which might be a little different from an Observatory one... But it remains a bit unclear to me.
I wasn't aware of the Rolex Kew A pieces, to be honest.
Thanks a lot for pointing them out to me. In a comment below, Carlos22 also pointed out the Roger Dubuis Bulletin d'Observatoire, which are interesting pieces as well. But what I was specifically looking after was this particular dial layout with small se...
Yes, but the Voutilainen Observatoire don't bear any mention of
their observatory grade on their dial, as far as I know. credit: Phillips ...
The owner told me on IG that he cased the movement himself
and also designed the dial and had it made. He's trying to become an independent watchmaker.
Thank you! I'm glad you like the post!
I fully understand your preference for the VC and Lederer. I personally also find the Patek 2556 and the Massena Absinthe very attractive. Best, Emmanuel
Many of the first generation Roger Dubuis watches had Observatory certification
Many had the credential printed on the dial… ...
Great! I didn’t know. It’s definitely also an “observatory dial”.
Thanks for sharing. Best, Emmanuel
Might the PP and AP wristwatches be using the same ebauche?
The regulator adjustment mechanisms on several of the watches are interesting and unusual. Thank you for another great article
Yes, I think they are all using the same Valjoux 13 VZAS caliber.
You might want to check this article, which specifies that the VZAS is the time only variant with small seconds at 9 o'clock: https://www.stetzcowatches.com/2018/12/28/origins-the-13-ligne-valjoux-vz-movement/ Have a great Sunday. Best, Emmanuel
Thanks a lot for another fascinating post 👌🏻👍🏻
While the historical specimen are superb I have to say I am fairly drawn to the Lederer, too 👌🏻👍🏻
Thank you so much!
I agree that the Lederer is quite remarkable. I find the Massena/Pagès Absinthe attractive too: it's a nice tribute to the historical pieces. But the PP Museum 2556 is the one that is dearest to my heart... Best, Emmanuel
