As per usual, we’ve got a huge variety here this week. I might even say an eclectic mix. You’ll find rare military watches, rare chronographs, hard to find modern pieces, and even some potentially fake pieces up for auction. Market Watch(ing) is live, folks. Let’s get to it.
Neil’s Picks
Jaeger LeCoultre cal 463 (Possible) German Military Watch
JLC is right up there with IWC when it comes to fantastic vintage military watches. There are several that are easily identifiable but when you start finding more obscure references, things can get hazy, and that’s when it pays to do your homework. Fortunately this amazing JLC cal 463 comes with the info to back it up. Per the seller, the fact that the case and movement serial number match is an indication that this could easily be a German Luftwaffe timepiece. This is the only model that JLC matched the numbers on and that was due to a requirement from the Germans. The dial is sharp with excellent patina on the markers and hands. From the looks of the case, it’s been used like a 70-year old military watch should have been. It has the marks of a life well lived yet there seems to be no sign of corrosion. At 31mm it’s not large, but I feel that anywhere between 30-36mm is the proper size for a vintage military watch like this. The price is a bargain for a JLC with this provenance and in this good of condition. A perfect piece for the vintage military watch enthusiast.
$900
Panerai PAM196 Luminor Daylight Chronograph
Satisfying my Panerai fix, here we have a PAM 196. This is the first “Daylight” Panerai and one of their more rarely seen chronographs. The PAM 250 which followed was produced in far greater numbers and is more common, however, this one is just a little more rare having only been made for a couple years. This 196 features the Cal. OP XII which is based on the Valjoux 7753. The 44mm Luminor case has that unmistakable Panerai profile and wrist presence. Along with not showing up very often, the ones that do aren’t usually in this type of excellent condition. You can buy with confidence as this watch comes with all the documentation, tools, and extra straps. It is also being sold by the original owner, which is like finding a needle in a stack of needles when it comes to buying on the forums. This is a quality Panerai that you’re unlikely to see on another wrist at a good price. It’s like I always say: if it’s good enough for Jason Statham in Transporter 2, it’s good enough for you.
$4,990
Dean’s Picks
Rolex Daytona Meteorite Dial
$24,575
Heuer 72C Triple Calendar Chronograph
Inquire for Price
Isaac’s Picks
Omega Seamaster “Railmaster” ref 2914-5 PAF-Issued
I’ve been collecting for a number of years now, and I think I wouldn’t be the slightest bit wrong in saying that I’m just starting to get the gist of what exactly it is that I like. With that said, there’s one group of watches that I have always held to a high regard. This group is what some Omega enthusiasts would potentially refer to as the holy trinity, and it consists of the Ref. 2913 Seamaster, Ref. 2914. Railmaster, and the legendary Ref. 2915 Speedmaster. Time and time again, I find myself wondering just how a watch brand had that many arguably perfect watches on the market at the same time, making it almost somewhat hard to believe. Now, although I’d love to keep going with this whole “modern watches are really letting us down” rant, we’ve got things to do, and cool watches to drool over.
If the drooling has already begun, no worries, we are talking about a 1960 Ref. 2914-5 Omega Seamaster dial Railmaster, that was issued in the Pakistani Air Force (PAF). What you’ve got in this piece is simply an honest example of a both rare and beautiful watch, that thankfully wasn’t subjected to any modifications or tampering. Also, you can sleep easy at night knowing that the piece’s PAF provenance is confirmed by Omega in an Extract of the Archives. We really don’t see too many of these great watches that often, so when an example comes up, you’ve gotta pounce.
Bid Now
BID WITH CAUTION: Watches of Knightsbridge Rolex Comex and 3-6-9 Submariners
Last night on Instagram, somewhat of a controversy was sparked when Philipp Stahl of Rolex Passion Report made claims that three vintage Rolex lots (a Comex 1680, a military 5513, and an explorer dial 5513) in an upcoming Watches of Knightsbridge sale were being offered with fake dials, and that bidders should stay away from them. In response, the auction house said that they “strongly disagree” with Stahl’s opinion, and proceeded to continue promoting the watches in question.
After doing a bit of research myself, and discussing the matter with several collectors, dealers, and experts, I must say the discussions taking place about the lots in question are indeed interesting, and that potential bidders should consult with their advisers. It’s an altogether curious situation.
Auction Link
Shane’s Picks
Hamilton Valjoux 7733 Panda Dial
I’ve chosen these “poor man’s Heuers” before, but this Hamilton is probably the nicest example I’ve seen (at least in a while). Panda dials are right up there with “tropical” and “lollipop” in terms of dealer buzzwords, but it’s for good reason; panda dials are hot. This Hamilton appears to be in outstanding and original condition. The case is super sharp; I literally (figuratively) cut my fingers on it just looking at the lugs. As you can see, the dial is clean, and best of all, the lume plots are all there and evenly aged. I think $1,850 is the highest price I’ve seen for one of these Hamiltons, but with a little negotiating, you’ve got yourself a primo vintage chrono for well under $2,000.
$1,850
Longines Nonius Flyback Chronograph
Here’s one you don’t see everyday: the Longines Nonius Flyback Chronograph. Packing serious heat with the vaunted caliber 30CH, this Longines features a special chronograph seconds hand that allows for 1/10th of a second reading. When you’ve been around the vintage market long enough, you start to see a lot of the same stuff, which can lead to a certain degree of boredom. It’s watches like this Longines that can re-invigorate the love for these overpriced little wrist machines. For $5,950, I don’t think the price is unfair for a Nonius Flyback in this condition, but it never hurts to haggle. Someone please buy this before I do.
$5,950
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