Le Phare - Classic Chronograph - 1900-1949

Belle Époque Desk Set: Silver “Le Phare” Split-Seconds Chronograph and “WMF” Stand (ca. 1900–1905) A premium collector’s set, combining Swiss haute horology with German decorative art from the Jugendstil / Art Nouveau period. A rare piece, preserved in its original historical configuration. The Watch and the Movement (Le Phare, Switzerland) Movement: Top monopulsator chronograph caliber with independent double seconds (Rattrapante / Split-Seconds), with column wheel. Gilt-plated plates and hand-engraved balance bridge. Matching Numbers: The unique series 497115 is stamped identically both on the plate (under the dial) and on the inside of the case, guaranteeing the originality of the set. Dial: White porcelain enamel with black Roman numerals and red inner scale (13–24 hours). It features a rare reverse graduated minute hand (at 12 o'clock, reading to the left, marked with a curved arrow). Lever-Set time setting system (lever pulled out at 2 o'clock). Aesthetic condition: The dial has fine age cracks (hairlines) and a small chip at the hour mark, specific to use. Solid Silver Case Design: The back cover has a fine geometric engraved finish (Guilloché) and a clean central heraldic shield (without monogram). Official Markings: The interior of the cover bears the manufacturer's hallmark of the Le Phare manufacture (Winged Griffin), the Swiss state hallmark for export "Mountain Rooster" (Auerhahn) and the purity title 0.800. Double-case structure with inner dust cover (cuvette). Decorative Desk Stand (WMF, Germany)Design: Made by the famous WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik) in Neo-Baroque/Jugendstil style. It is decorated with a three-dimensional knight's helmet on the top and a large shell-shaped base for accessories. The clock slot retains the original brown velour protective cushion.Markings: It bears the official WMF logo (M in a star with rays) and the catalog model number 5818, stamped identically on the vertical body and under the support base. Made of heavy cast metal and galvanically silvered IMPORTANT NOTE / CAUTION REGARDING THE WORKING CONDITION: The clock is functional as a basic mechanism (hour, minutes and lower second hand work perfectly), but the CHRONOGRAPH RESET PART IS DEFECTIVE/BLOCKED. When the button is pressed, those centrals start, but do not return to zero. The piece is being sold as is, requiring a complete technical overhaul (cleaning, restoration by a certified watchmaker). Please carefully view the images before bidding. Thank you and good luck! For Restauration!