- 2045
A. Lange & Söhne
Estimate
65,000 - 90,000 HKD
bidding is closed
Description
- AN OVERSIZED STAINLESS STEEL CENTER SECONDS MILITARY PILOT'S WRISTWATCHNO 215767 CIRCA 1942
- stainless steel
- diameter 55 mm
• manual winding gilt brass jeweled movement • black dial, luminescent triangular, baton and Arabic five minute divisions with inner Arabic hours, luminescent sword hands, lozenge hands • brushed case, snap-on case back, large winding crown • case and movement signed
Condition
Manual winding movement is running at the time of cataloguing. Dial is generally clean, the hands shows signs of aging and discoloration but it is consistent with their age. Case is in very good condition, no visible blemishes. Case band shows signs of opening. Overall in very good condition. Interesting example of World War II Military watch. Movement stamped 215767. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time keeping and a service might be required at the buyer's expense. **Please note that the present lot does not come with original strap.**
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."
Catalogue Note
To find any wartime relics, especially those which were flown, is a rare treat. The Beobachtungs-uhren pilot watch by A. Lange & Söhne has not only stood the test of time, but also has become a classic and historical wristwatch.
The present lot was intentionally designed with a 55mm diameter to accommodate the hand-wound movements that is surrounded by an iron core, making the B-Uhr anti-magnetic – specially made for pilots use and a must for aviation. This classical piece displays an engraving on the left side of the case, FL23883 is engraved on the side, FL represented flieger and 23 identified the watch as a navigation watch.
Today, the B-Uhr style is extremely popular, with many watchmakers mimicking the style and producing some variation of it. However, the genuine piece from the 1940s is not easy to come across and is a staple piece for high end watch collectors.