LEMAN - Open-Face 17-Jewel Shockproof - 1960-1969

Introduction

A vintage Swiss open-face pocket watch signed LEMAN 17 JEWELS SHOCKPROOF SWISS MOVT on the clean white dial, which carries bold Roman numerals and slender lance-style hands. The movement is a hand-wound Swiss caliber by SEMAG, visible with the caseback opened, and the watch comes on its snake chain with a belt clip. The open-face chrome-finish case has a plain polished solid caseback and no hunting cover.

Historical / Era context

Leman was a Swiss trade name applied to mid-grade export pocket watches produced during the postwar decades; the SEMAG movement manufacturer was a Swiss ébauche supplier active through the 1950s–1970s. The 17-jewel count and shockproofing were standard features for a reliable everyday timekeeper of the period, and the slim open-face profile with a snake albert chain was a popular presentation for the continental European and export markets. The movement plate is engraved SWISS SEVENTEEN JEWELS SEMAG, confirming authentic Swiss manufacture throughout.

Condition

The watch is running, with a measured rate of approximately +50 seconds 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 case body retains a good level of polish with light scattered fine scratches on the bezel rim and mid-band consistent with normal handling. The caseback exterior is clean and retains its high polish with only minor surface marks. The bow and pendant are intact and in good order.

Dial: The dial is white with clear, fully legible Roman numerals and printed text. There is light dust settling and minor marks around the centre but no significant staining, crazing or chips. Overall the dial presents well.

Crystal: The crystal has heavy scratching across its surface — multiple deep scratches are visible from edge to edge and the crystal should be replaced before display.

Movement: The watch is running. With the caseback opened, the SEMAG hand-wound movement is visible, engraved SWISS SEVENTEEN JEWELS. The plates show good finishing, the ruby jewels are intact in their settings, and the balance oscillates freely. A service is recommended as routine maintenance.

Accessories: The watch comes with the snake albert chain and a belt/pocket clip attachment shown in the photos. The chain's origin (manufacturer) is not known to me. No box or papers are included.

Please review all photographs carefully for the detailed condition.

Specifications

Model: LEMAN 17 JEWELS SHOCKPROOF SWISS MOVT
Movement: Manual winding mechanical movement
Jewels: 17 jewels
Case material: Chromed
Case diameter: approx. 30 mm
Total length including crown: approx. 34 mm
Total length including crown and ring: approx. 45.2 mm
Dial color: White
Period: 1960-1969
Weight: approx. 35 g
Accessories: Snake albert chain, Belt/pocket clip
In working order: Yes
Timekeeping: approx. +50 seconds per day (checked lying flat after a full wind)

Closing note

A neat and collectible mid-century Swiss open-face pocket watch with an authentic SEMAG movement, appealing for collectors of vintage Swiss pieces or everyday carry enthusiasts. Please examine all photos carefully as they form part of the 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.