WATEX - Hunter open-face sub-seconds 17-jewel - 1970-1979

Introduction

This is a Watex open-face hunter-style pocket watch featuring a white enamel-style dial with Roman numeral hour markers, a dual-scale chapter ring showing both 12-hour Roman numerals and an outer 24-hour Arabic track, and a subsidiary seconds register at the 6 o'clock position. The hands are slender blued-steel, and the dial is signed 'Watex' beneath a decorative crown motif. The movement is a Swiss-made manual-winding caliber, visible with the caseback opened, running on 17 jewels.

Historical / Era context

Watex was a Swiss watch brand producing quality timepieces for the mid-market, with movements sourced from established Swiss ébauche suppliers. The 17-jewel Swiss movement visible here, marked 'SWISS / SEVENTEEN 17 JEWELS / UNADJUSTED', is a well-finished manual-winding caliber of the type commonly found in Swiss hunter and open-face pocket watches of the mid-20th century. The engine-turned guilloché case — with its fine concentric diamond pattern and decorative medallion — is typical of quality Swiss gold-plated dress pocket watches from the 1950s to 1970s. The outer 24-hour numeral track on the main chapter ring was a common feature on Swiss export pocket watches intended for professional or military use.

Condition

The watch is running and keeping good time. 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 case surfaces show light scattered fine scratches consistent with age and handling. The guilloché pattern on the front and rear covers is well-preserved with no deep dents observed. The interior of the front cover shows scattered circular polishing marks but no engraving. The hinge and snap closures function correctly.

Dial: The dial is clean and legible with good contrast on all Roman numerals and the outer Arabic 24-hour track. No staining, cracks, or lifting visible. The printing of the brand name and crown motif is intact.

Crystal: The crystal is present and clear, showing no cracks. Minor surface wear marks are present.

Movement: The watch is running. With the caseback opened, the movement is visible: a Swiss manual-winding caliber marked 'SWISS / SEVENTEEN 17 JEWELS / UNADJUSTED', with red jewel settings clearly visible in the mainplate. The bridges show a clean, unadorned finish typical of mid-grade Swiss production. No loose parts or obvious damage observed.

Accessories: No box, papers, chain, or additional accessories are included.

Please review all photographs carefully for the detailed condition.

Specifications

Brand: WATEX
Model: Watex
Movement: Manual winding mechanical movement
Jewels: 17 jewels
Case material: Chromed
Case diameter: approx. 44.7 mm
Total length including crown: approx. 55.5 mm
Total length including crown and ring: approx. 60.4 mm
Dial color: White
Period: 1950-1959
Weight: approx. 70 g
Accessories: None (watch only)
In working order: Yes
Timekeeping: keeping good time (checked lying flat after a full wind)

Closing note

A handsome Swiss hunter-style pocket watch in a beautifully engine-turned case, ideal for the collector of mid-century Swiss dress pieces or those seeking an elegant everyday carry. Please review all photographs carefully 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.