1910's West End Watch Co. 18k gold Chronograph watch, A. Lugrin 13''' movement.
This watch began as a bit of a mystery. At first I thought it was a conversion to a wristwatch, however after consultation with collectors, watchmakers and experts, this movement commonly appears in wristwatches from 1910-1915, with pin lever set crown. This, along with the 35mm case size, means this is an early transitional piece from West End Watch Co.
This is a beautiful 18ct gold cased chronograph which has an intact enamel dial signed "West End Watch Co.". "Bombay, Calcutta". This has very pleasing proportions at 35mm x 35mm and looks exceptional on a military style bund strap. The dial features chronograph minutes graduated larger around the outer track of the dial, counting to 60. There is a 30 minute counter at 12 also. At 6 there is a sub second hand which adds lovely balance to the dials aesthetic. The roman numeral hour markers are a nice touch which is in-fitting with it's circa 1910 design. The hands are all original and thermally blued, completing this exceptional early wrist watch chronograph.
Very scarce 13''' caliber inside.This ebauche of this caliber was made by Alfred Lugrin as a miniaturised version of his 19''' patented chronograph and later supplied both to 'Моеris' and Jeanneret.
Moreover, all these small movements have serial numbers in conjunction with Alfred Lugrin old six-digit numeration system: 117*** -118***.
This gilt version of this caliber carries the Alfred Lugrin stamp under bridge plate (AL written within 'cross' symbol).
This movement later evolved into the Lemania 13CH.
Please see the images as these compliment and aid the description provided below.
Dial:
The dial is original and is in perfect condition with no fractures, hairline fractures or chips.
Hands:
The hands are original and are in good condition. They are thermally blued and maintain an excellent tone, with no discolouration.
Glass:
The crystal is a replacement but fits well and has no scratching.
Crown:
The crown is original and in excellent condition.
Case:
The case is in good condition with only light surface scratches, overall the case is in great condition with no dents.
Case back:
Light surface scratching consistent with wear, but for a 110 year old watch it is in great condition.
Strap:
New, 12mm Leather military style bund strap.
Movement:
A rare and early miniaturised A. Lugrin Chronograph calibre. It keeps great time, to plus 38 seconds a day, with an amplitude of 220 and a beat error of 1.9 m/s. The frequency is 18,000.
Case width: 35mm
Case length: 35mm
Case length with crown: 41.2mm
Case thickness: 12.1mm
Case length lug to lug: 43.3mm
Lug width: 10-11mm