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Fama Ancre Monopoussoir Stainless Steel Wristwatch

ProbableCredible evidence exists but classification is not fully established.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

circa 1930

This stainless steel tonneau-shaped wristwatch was produced by Fama Ancre, Switzerland, circa 1930. The watch features a single-button chronograph mechanism, with operation controlled by a coaxial button integrated into the crown and a secondary resetting knob located at the two o'clock position.

The case measures 21 x 33 mm with a 10 mm thickness and is finished with polished and brushed surfaces, featuring a stepped bezel. The movement is rhodium-plated, containing 15 jewels and a straight-line lever escapement with a monometallic balance and a self-compensating flat balance spring. The two-tone silver dial displays painted Arabic numerals, an inner seconds track, and blued steel eventail hands. The chronograph mechanism is exposed within the movement.

The watch is documented as requiring repair, with signs of wear reported on the dial, case, and movement components by the auction description.

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
Monopoussoir chronograph
Hands
Blued steel eventail
Maker
Fama Ancre
Case Shape
Tonneau
Dimensions
21 x 33 mm
Dial detail
Two-tone silver
Case Material
Stainless steel
Place recorded
Switzerland
Movement Jewels
15 jewels
Production Date
circa 1930
Maker / attribution
Fama Ancre
Chronograph function
Coaxial single button

Design

Case and Dial
The watch is housed in a tonneau-shaped stainless steel case measuring 21 x 33 mm with a thickness of 10 mm. The exterior finish consists of both polished and brushed surfaces, complemented by a stepped bezel. The case construction is described as two-body. A reeded crown acts as the primary interface for the chronograph, housing the coaxial button. The dial is finished in a two-tone silver color scheme featuring painted Arabic numerals and an inner track for seconds. The time and chronograph indications are provided by blued steel eventail hands. The auction description notes that the dial exhibits signs of wear and has been refreshed.
Visible features
• Case features a reeded crown with a coaxial chronograph button • The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap • Dial features an inner seconds track and painted Arabic numerals • A reset knob for the chronograph is located at the 2 o'clock position on the case flank
Condition and Authenticity
The auction description provides a detailed condition assessment of the object. The case is noted as having scratches. The movement is also described as scratched and requires professional intervention. The dial is reported as being slightly scratched and worn, with the auction notes indicating it has been refreshed. The hands are noted as original to the watch. Authenticity is addressed through the provided cataloging of the manufacturer and general specifications. The grading system used by the auctioneer assigns a status of 'Good' to various components while acknowledging the need for maintenance and noting the refreshed nature of the dial.
Movement and Chronograph Mechanism
The movement is rhodium-plated and contains 15 jewels. The mechanical architecture incorporates a straight-line lever escapement, a monometallic balance, and a self-compensating flat balance spring. The chronograph work is visible within the movement. The caliber measures 20 mm in diameter. The chronograph system is a single-button type. The function of starting and stopping the timer is achieved by depressing the coaxial button located in the crown. The reset function is managed via a separate knob positioned on the case at the 2 o'clock location. The auction description reports that the movement is scratched and requires repair.

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: The movement is reported to require repair
  • Research required: The dial is described as having been refreshed
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