ARSA - Open-Face Blue Sunburst Dial - 1960-1969

Introduction

A Swiss-made ARSA Precision open-face pocket watch with a striking blue sunburst dial, applied baton hour markers, and dauphine-style hands. The watch is hand-wound, fitted in a hunter-style snap-back case with a smooth, plain caseback and a snake-link chain terminating in a pocket clip. Dial text reads 'arsa PRECISION' and 'SWISS' at the base of the dial.

Historical / Era context

The clean, modernist dial layout — blue sunburst finish, applied baton indices, and dauphine hands — is characteristic of Swiss open-face pocket watch production from the 1960s and early 1970s. This example is accompanied by its original snake-link chain with a pocket/lapel clip, making it a complete and wearable set.

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 carry light to moderate scattered fine scratches consistent with normal vintage use. The snap-back caseback shows brushed wear across the dome. The hinge and push-button release mechanism function correctly. No dents or deformation are visible. The chain and clip show minor surface scratches but are intact and functional.

Dial: The blue sunburst dial is legible and attractive. There is light, even patina across the dial surface but no heavy staining, chips, or significant discolouration. The applied baton indices and printed minute track are all intact.

Crystal: The crystal is present and the dial is readable through it. There are light surface scratches on the crystal.

Movement: The watch is running. With the caseback opened, the movement is visible and presents a clean, well-finished plate. The movement is signed 'arsa PRECISION SWISS' and winds and sets normally via the crown.

Accessories: The original snake-link chain with pocket clip is included. No box or papers are present.

Please review all photographs carefully for the detailed condition.

Specifications

Brand: ARSA
Model: arsa PRECISION SWISS
Movement: Manual winding mechanical movement
Case material: Chromed
Case diameter: approx. 42.3 mm
Total length including crown: approx. 47.7 mm
Total length including crown and ring: approx. 52 mm
Dial color: Blue
Period: 1960-1969
Weight: approx. 56 g
Accessories: Snake-link chain with pocket clip
In working order: Yes
Timekeeping: keeping good time (checked lying flat after a full wind)

Closing note

A complete and characterful mid-century Swiss open-face piece with a particularly appealing blue sunburst dial, ideal for the collector of vintage Swiss pocket watches or as a functional daily carry. Please examine all photographs carefully before bidding.
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.