Movado Ermetophon Travel Clock
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1950s
This Movado Ermetophon travel clock dates to the 1950s. The piece features a rectangular chassis crafted from stainless steel, which is enclosed within a wrap of black alligator leather.
The design incorporates a sliding case mechanism that protects the clock face and crowns when closed. The silvered dial is detailed with applied dart-style indices and an inner track for the alarm function. Timekeeping and alarm settings are managed via crowns positioned at the 12 o'clock side. The hands are of an alpha style, with a distinct red-tipped indicator serving the alarm. A small metal loop on the side of the leather casing provides a point for attachment to a chain or lanyard for transport.
This example serves as the alarm-equipped variant of the Ermeto line, a series produced by Movado for decades. It is intended for portable use in pockets, bags, or as a desk accessory.
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
- Era
- 1950s
- Type
- Travel clock
- Model
- Ermetophon
- Design
- Travel clock
- Features
- Alarm
- Materials
- Stainless steel and alligator leather
- Mechanism
- Hand-wound
- Manufacturer
- Movado
- Maker / attribution
- Movado
Design
- Dial and Hands
- The silvered dial displays a series of applied dart indices, which mark the hours. A circular inner scale is printed on the dial to facilitate the use of the alarm function. The time is indicated by an alpha handset. An additional hand, distinguished by its red-tipped indicator, functions as the alarm setting arm. The dial carries the Movado signature near the 12 o'clock position, the model name 'ermetophon' above the 6 o'clock position, and the designation 'SWITZERLAND T' at the base.
- Visible features
- • Case features black alligator leather wrap • Two crowns located on top edge • Red-tipped indicator hand • Dial marked 'SWITZERLAND T'
- Case and External Features
- The clock is housed in a rectangular chassis constructed from stainless steel. This protective outer covering is finished in black alligator leather. A small metal loop is integrated into the side of the leather wrap, designed to allow the clock to be secured to a lanyard or chain while traveling. Two crowns are positioned on the top edge of the clock movement; these are used for the dual functions of winding the movement and adjusting the internal alarm settings.
- Movement and Functionality
- The device is powered by a hand-wound movement manufactured by Movado. The primary crown is responsible for winding the mainspring, while the secondary crown manages the alarm mechanism. The interface is designed for portability, allowing the user to wind and set the clock within its travel-friendly case. The movement design and overall construction are described as being part of the Ermetophon series, which differentiates this model from standard non-alarm Ermeto travel clocks. The mechanism remains accessible once the sliding case is opened, allowing for rapid adjustment of the time and alarm during daily use.
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: Exact year of production is unverified
- Research required: Origin of leather is stated as alligator by the vendor but not independently authenticated