For sale is a late 1930s Fears Octagonal Tonneau chrome plated wrist watch, in New Old Stock condition, with a shock-proof manual wind movement.
 
This is an outstanding example in new old stock condition. It has a complex Octagonal Tonneau shaped case, with bevelled edges that reflect and play with the light. It somewhat resembles the Cartier Tortue. The case measures 29mm x 29mm with a lug-to-lug measurement of 36mm. This is on the smaller side by modern tastes, however the angular facetted edges and bevels, combined with the way in which the case reflects the light, gives the watch a wrist presence beyond its strict dimensions.
Sitting proudly on the side of the case is a chunky coin edged crown, which is original ensuring easy winding.
 
The dial is neatly framed by the flat top section of the watch that reflects the light with its mirror finish.
 
The dial is signed “Waterproof” “Fears Bristol Eng” at 12 O’clock with “Shookproof” signed above the sub-second dial at 6 O’clock. This signing is presented neatly with curvature to frame it nearly between the hands and follow the contour of the Sub-Second dial. The Fears name sits boldly, ever proud of its home city and country. The hour markers are thick painted batons, with Arabic 9,12,3 which adds balance to the dial with the sub-second dial situated at 6. The sub-second dial is sunk into the dial which adds an enjoyable texture to the dial. With clear divisions for 10 second periods, which enable accurate time keeping despite the lack of a central second hand. The sub-second hand is thermally blued and is original, fitting the margin neatly. It has a railroad minute track situated around the outside of the dial.
 
The hands are of “Stick” style which are thermally blued, turning to a bright electric blue in the light. 
 
The movement is an AS Ebauche, a variant of the AS 240 with a form of shock protection. This was rarer during this period, along with a different bridge layout to the standard AS 340. The movement has been assessed and serviced by the Fears Team to ensure excellent reliability. 
 
The watch sits neatly on a genuine leather strap with metal tabs for fixed lugs.
 
This beautiful example will come nestled in an official Fears box, in “Fears Bristol Blue” with cream interior. Upon opening, you will be greeted by a Fears owner club leaflet, alongside Bold Timepieces card, and a Fears travel pouch. Accompanying this will be an extract from the Fears archive, detailing the specifics of this example.
 
Don’t let this appealing and unique Fears model pass you by. In new old stock condition, this is a very rare opportunity to own a piece of Fears history.
 
Dial:
The dial is original and is in new old stock condition. It has no signs of wear.
 
Hands:
The hands are all original and are thermally blued in a stick style. They are in new old stock condition with no marking.
 
Glass:
The crystal is original and is in new old stock condition with no damage. 
 
Crown:
The crown is original and is chromium plated. It is in new old stock condition with light surface scratches associated with storage.
 
Case:
The chrome plated case is in new old stock condition with light surface scratching as associated with storage.
 
Caseback:
The case back is formed of Stainless Steel and is incredibly clean. It maintains its original brushed finish. It has light surface scratching associated with storage.
 
Strap:
A new genuine leather strap with metal tabs to hold it in place. The strap will fit up to a 7.5” wrist diameter. The watch is modelled on a 7” wrist circumference to give an idea of the proportions.
 
Movement:
A freshly serviced manual wind movement with 15 jewels and a 36 hours power reserve. This is an advantageous model with its shock protection making it more rugged.
 
Case dimensions:
Case width: 29mm
Case width with crown: 31.5mm
Case length: 29mm
Case length lug to lug: 36mm
Case Depth: 10.5mm
Lug width: 15mm