ATO Rolls Hatots Patents 18K gold automatic wristwatch
ProbableCredible evidence exists but classification is not fully established.
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
ca. 1930
This early automatic wristwatch features an 18K gold rectangular case measuring approximately 17 by 37 mm with a liftable front bezel mechanism. Built according to Hatots Patents, the entire movement is reported to move up and down for automatic winding.
The piece is fitted with a hidden winding crown, an original dial signed 'FAB. SUISSE ATO', original hands, and a leather strap.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Rectangular automatic wristwatch
- Case Feature
- Liftable front, hidden crown
- Case Material
- 18 K gold
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Case Dimensions
- Ca. 17 x 37 mm
- Winding Mechanism
- Hatots Patents vertical motion automatic winding
- Maker / attribution
- ATO
Design
- Dial and Hands
- The auction cataloguer describes the watch as having an "original dial" and "original hands", though the basis for this originality assessment is not documented in the text. Direct visual inspection shows a light-colored rectangular dial with Arabic numerals, blued hands, and the visible inscription "FAB. SUISSE ATO".
- Visible features
- • Hinged outer upper bezel frame lifted upward, revealing the inner rectangular movement carriage. • Partially recessed knurled crown along the lower side of the inner frame. • Light-colored rectangular dial with Arabic numerals, blued hands, and visible inscription 'FAB. SUISSE ATO'. • Mounted on a brown reptile-grain leather strap.
- Identity and Operating Principle
- The auction title lists the piece as a "Wristwatch: very rare and early automatic watch ATO ROLLS HATOTS PATENTS 18 K gold, ca. 1930". The listing identifies the mechanism as an "early automatic movement according to HATOTS PATENTS, the whole movement goes up and down for automatic winding". The auction description does not detail the internal engineering beyond noting that the complete movement shifts up and down to achieve automatic winding. Further details regarding internal sliding rails or specific patent registrations are not provided in the source.
- Condition and Recorded Limitations
- The cataloguer notes the watch as "in working order", but mechanical performance, timekeeping accuracy, and the internal motion mechanism were not independently tested. Internal movement stamps, base caliber numbers, and precious metal hallmarks are not recorded in the source text and are not visible in the provided exterior photograph.
- Case Architecture and Visible Characteristics
- The case is catalogued as "18 K gold" with measurements of "Ca. 17 x 37 mm" and is noted to have a "liftable front" and a "hidden crown". It is fitted with a "leather strap". Visual observation of the lot photograph confirms the hinged outer upper bezel frame lifted upward, revealing the inner rectangular movement carriage. A partially recessed knurled crown is visible along the lower side of the inner frame, and the watch is mounted on a brown reptile-grain leather strap.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Movement interior and caseback hallmarks are not visible in the provided photograph.
- Research required: Working order and internal movement motion are source-reported and not independently verifiable.