Cyma - Open-face enamel dial sub-seconds - 1900-1949

Introduction

This is a CYMA open-face pocket watch featuring a white enamel dial with bold Arabic numerals, blued steel hands, and a subsidiary seconds register at the lower centre. The movement is a manually wound mechanical calibre signed CYMA, visible with the caseback opened, housed in a stainless steel case measuring 43.8 mm in diameter and weighing 46 grams. The clean, step-edged case and classic CYMA movement make this a handsome example of Swiss pocket watchmaking.

Historical / Era context

CYMA (Schwob Frères & Co.) was founded in Le Locle, Switzerland in 1862 and built a strong reputation for reliable, well-finished mechanical movements supplied to markets worldwide. The movement visible here carries the CYMA name and logo on the bridge plate, consistent with the brand's mid-twentieth-century production of manually wound pocket watch calibres. The stainless steel case stamped '13.STAINLESS STEEL' confirms the case material, placing this firmly within the era when stainless steel cases became the standard for durability in everyday and professional pocket watches.

Condition

The watch is running, with a measured rate of approximately +1 minute per day (gaining). The watch was checked lying flat (dial up) after a full wind. This is a spot check at the time of listing; as a vintage mechanical watch the rate in actual wear varies with position and winding state, and long-term accuracy is not guaranteed. As a vintage timepiece it may benefit from a service.

Case: The stainless steel case shows scattered fine scratches and light surface wear on the bezel rim and mid-band consistent with age and use. The stepped edges retain reasonable definition. The caseback exterior is plain and brushed, with some light marks. Overall the case presents in good used condition.

Dial: The white enamel dial is intact and legible with all numerals and indices clearly readable. There is light age-related discolouration and minor spotting visible near the lower left area of the dial, but the overall presentation is good with no chips or cracks noted.

Crystal: The crystal is in place and allows clear viewing of the dial and hands. There are light surface marks consistent with normal age and handling.

Movement: The watch is running. With the caseback opened, the CYMA-signed movement is visible; the mainplate and bridges show a nickel finish with a decorative balance cock. A gold-coloured fourth wheel is visible. The movement includes a ruby jewel at the pallet/balance area. The regulation lever is stamped with decorative engraving.

Accessories: No chain, box, or papers are included. The watch is offered as shown.

Please review all photographs carefully for the detailed condition.

A note on dating: I was not able to inspect the movement to read a serial number, so the exact year of manufacture is not confirmed. The period shown in the title and specifications (1900-1949) is an approximate era based on Cyma’s documented years of production (c. 1895–1945), and is given as a guide only — not a confirmed manufacturing date.

Specifications

Brand: Cyma
Model: CYMA
Movement: Manual winding mechanical movement
Case material: Stainless steel
Case diameter: approx. 43.8 mm
Total length including crown: approx. 49.2 mm
Total length including crown and ring: approx. 52.9 mm
Dial color: White
Period: 1900-1949 (approximate era — exact year not confirmed; see dating note above)
Weight: approx. 46 g
Accessories: None (watch only)
In working order: Yes
Timekeeping: approx. +1 minute per day (checked lying flat after a full wind)

Closing note

A characterful and wearable vintage Swiss pocket watch from a respected maker, this CYMA is an appealing find for the collector of mid-century European pocket watches. Please examine all photos closely as they form part of the item description.
As with all vintage timepieces, please examine the provided photographs carefully to satisfy yourself with the condition before bidding. The watch is sold as a vintage collectible; water resistance and future maintenance are not guaranteed.
The item is carefully packed and shipped from Japan with tracking.
Import duties, taxes and customs charges are the buyer's responsibility.