156 Minerva Oversized, Well Preserved and Extremely Rare, Split Second, Coaxial, Single Button Chronograph, Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 17 000

Estimate: €35,000 –⁠ 70,000

Model: Split-seconds Chronograph
Reference: 17000
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Nato Strap
Year: 1930's
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 55
Movement N°: 2367
Dimensions: 42 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

The earliest Minerva wristwatch was made in 1909, but the watch company’s greatest success came in 1923 with the introduction of the caliber 13–20, a movement that perfectly illustrates the classic and refined architecture of wrist chronographs of that era, with the iconic “V”-shaped bridge, column-wheel mechanism, a Breguet balance spring and 17 jewels. With the launch of this watch, the company earned its reputation as a manufacturer of complicated movements of exceptional quality. The present Minerva split second impresses for its beauty and rarity. This timepiece is an incredible example of the early military chronographs, and stands out especially due to its characteristic black dial. The case is remarkable and still features its original contours and edges. It is pretty much impressive considering its size of 42 m compared to the period of manufacturing where standard sizes were way smaller. The previously said black gilt dial is stunning for its conservation, the two big counters for constant seconds and 30 minutes registration, painted Arabic numerals, inner minute and 1/5th second divisions with 5 minute numerals and outer tachymeter scale. This mono pusher split seconds is an absolute masterpiece for every collection considering its rarity and conservation.