Movado Ermeto Travel Watch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1930s
This Movado Ermeto travel watch, originating from Switzerland and attributed to the 1930s, is a portable timepiece housed within a sliding 18kt yellow gold case.
The case exterior features a geometric hobnail (clous de Paris) pattern, which serves as both a protective covering when closed and a decorative housing. Measuring 66 by 30 mm, the object includes a hinged stand on the rear, allowing it to function as a desk clock. The champagne-toned dial incorporates a central hobnail texture, a polished outer ring, and linear hour markers. A notable mechanical feature is the winding system, which powers the movement through the physical action of opening and closing the sliding case covers.
The watch is accompanied by a handmade leather case, and the auction description reports that the movement has been serviced by the collection's watchmaker.
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
- Date
- 1930s
- Type
- Travel watch
- Maker
- Movado
- Model
- Ermeto
- Dimensions
- 66 x 30 mm
- Dial finish
- Champagne with hobnail center
- Case material
- 18kt yellow gold
- Place recorded
- Switzerland
- Winding mechanism
- Automatic via sliding case
- Maker / attribution
- Movado
Design
- Visible features
- • Case decorated with geometric hobnail pattern • Integrated sliding mechanism for self-winding • Hinged rear stand for upright display • Switzerland signed on dial
- Case and Dial Design
- The Movado Ermeto is defined by its specialized sliding case construction. The external shell, crafted from 18kt yellow gold, is embossed with a uniform hobnail pattern, providing texture and protection for the dial when the object is fully retracted. This design enables the piece to transition between a compact travel state and an open, functional watch. The dial reflects the aesthetic of the case, featuring a champagne-gold coloration. Its composition consists of a central hobnail-textured zone surrounded by a smooth, polished border. Linear markers and hands indicate the time, with the word 'Switzerland' positioned at the bottom edge of the dial, confirming its place of manufacture.
- Provenance and Condition
- The auction description reports that the movement underwent a full inspection and evaluation by the collection’s watchmaker to confirm operational status. There is no documented evidence regarding the prior maintenance history or potential replacement of components for this specific watch. The provided information is based solely on vendor claims rather than independent certification or expert verification.
- Mechanical and Functional Features
- A central feature of the Ermeto system is the interaction between the sliding covers and the movement. The winding mechanism is engineered to store energy during the manual sliding movement of the case, effectively using the action of opening or closing the watch as a winding method. This allows the watch to function without a traditional crown winding process, reflecting the design innovation of the period. Beyond its primary function as a pocket or travel watch, the object incorporates a hinged stand on the back panel. This component allows the watch to be propped open on flat surfaces, such as a bedside table or desk, facilitating use as a stationary timekeeper.
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: No documentation regarding movement caliber or jewel count
- Research required: History of previous repairs or part replacements remains unverified