Richard - 18K Solid Gold Chronograph - Valjoux 23 - Herren - 1900-1949

Hier Offered is an exceptional vintage chronograph by Richard Genève, powered by the legendary Valjoux 23 movement and housed in a fully solid 18-karat gold case.

Shipping from EU / EU Buyers will not buy import tax.

Why Valjoux 23 Matters

The Valjoux 23 is regarded as one of the most important hand-wound chronograph calibers of the mid-20th century. Celebrated for its robust architecture, smooth chronograph engagement, and long-term serviceability, it served as the architectural foundation for several high-end chronographs produced by leading Swiss manufactures, including Rolex. Original Valjoux 23 chronographs—particularly when housed in solid gold cases—are increasingly sought after by collectors who value movement pedigree, mechanical integrity, and historical relevance over brand recognition alone.

This timepiece belongs to a category that is becoming increasingly difficult to source: a mid-20th-century Swiss chronograph in solid gold, preserved in original configuration and professionally serviced. Unlike gold-plated or gold-capped examples, the entire case—including the caseback—is crafted in solid 18K gold, clearly hallmarked and confirmed by documented weight.

The watch has recently undergone a full professional service and is fitted with a new high-quality leather strap, making it ready for immediate wear while fully respecting its vintage character.

Solid-gold chronographs powered by Valjoux 23 were never mass-produced and were intended for a discreet, high-end clientele. With a 34 mm case diameter, this watch is perfectly proportioned for its era, while the substantial gold weight (35.07 g including movement) underscores the seriousness of its construction. Today, surviving examples that combine Valjoux 23 + solid 18K gold + original configuration are increasingly scarce, placing this piece firmly in the collector-grade chronograph segment, rather than the general vintage market.


Technical Details

Brand: Richard Genève

Movement: Valjoux 23, manual wind, Swiss Made

Functions: Chronograph, hours, minutes, small seconds

Jewels: 21

Case material: Solid 18K gold

Case diameter: 34 mm (excluding crown)

Caseback: Solid 18K gold, hallmarked

Crystal: Acrylic

Strap: New leather strap (installed)

Condition: Vintage, original configuration, professionally serviced

Gold & Weight Transparency

Total weight (case + movement): 35.07 grams

Caseback weight: 5.32 grams, stamped 18K

These details are provided for transparency and clearly distinguish this watch from plated or capped alternatives.

Condition

Very good vintage condition with honest signs of age.
Dial, hands, case, and movement are original and well preserved.
The watch has been serviced and is running and functioning correctly.
Please review all high-resolution photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.

Why This Watch Matters

Genuine Valjoux 23 chronograph movement

Fully solid 18K gold case (not plated, not capped)

Recently serviced and wearable

Increasingly rare configuration

Collector-grade mid-century Swiss chronograph

This is not an entry-level vintage chronograph, but a serious acquisition for collectors who understand movement lineage, material value, and long-term desirability.

Shipping

The watch is located in (EU).
Worldwide shipping available, fully insured and professionally packed.