Gardé Analog Chess Clock - 1970- New in Box - Chess set - East Germany - Wood

01
day
12
hours
40
minutes
53
seconds
Current bid
€ 20
No reserve price
Elena Napoleone
Expert
Selected by Elena Napoleone

Holds a bachelor's degree in history of art and architecture, with 12 years of experience in decorative arts.

Estimate  € 130 - € 190
DE
€20
ES
€15
ES
€10

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The Gardé analogue chess clock, made of wood, dates from 1970–1980.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Vintage Gardé Chess Clock by Ruhla – Made in GDR – Near Mint with Original Box (Early 1970s)

Offered is an exceptionally well-preserved piece of chess history: an authentic, second-generation Gardé analog mechanical chess clock, manufactured in East Germany (GDR) by VEB Ruhla (UMF) during the 1970s.
This model is a legendary icon in the chess world. Gardé mechanical clocks served as the official tournament standard across Europe for decades and were used in historical World Chess Championship matches, including the famous Karpov vs. Kasparov rivalries.

Condition & Presentation:
• Condition: Near Mint / Excellent. The solid beechwood case and birch face panel show pristine color and finish with virtually no signs of age or wear. Tested and working.
• Packaging: Includes its highly collectible, original cardboard factory box.
• Dials: Crisp white faces featuring the classic cursive "ruhla" branding at 12 o'clock, red star secondary hands, and the "Made in GDR" imprint.
• Mechanics: Mechanical wind-up movements. Fully functional, winds smoothly, and ticks perfectly on both sides. Buttons actuate cleanly to switch between timers.
A rare find for serious chess collectors, horology enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a premium, tournament-grade vintage clock in museum-quality, boxed condition.

Specifications:
• Brand: Gardé (Ruhla / UMF)
• Era: Early 1970s
• Origin: German Democratic Republic (East Germany / GDR)
• Material: Solid Beech & Birch wood, Metal mechanisms, Plastic buttons/plungers

Seller's Story

We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers. Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.

Vintage Gardé Chess Clock by Ruhla – Made in GDR – Near Mint with Original Box (Early 1970s)

Offered is an exceptionally well-preserved piece of chess history: an authentic, second-generation Gardé analog mechanical chess clock, manufactured in East Germany (GDR) by VEB Ruhla (UMF) during the 1970s.
This model is a legendary icon in the chess world. Gardé mechanical clocks served as the official tournament standard across Europe for decades and were used in historical World Chess Championship matches, including the famous Karpov vs. Kasparov rivalries.

Condition & Presentation:
• Condition: Near Mint / Excellent. The solid beechwood case and birch face panel show pristine color and finish with virtually no signs of age or wear. Tested and working.
• Packaging: Includes its highly collectible, original cardboard factory box.
• Dials: Crisp white faces featuring the classic cursive "ruhla" branding at 12 o'clock, red star secondary hands, and the "Made in GDR" imprint.
• Mechanics: Mechanical wind-up movements. Fully functional, winds smoothly, and ticks perfectly on both sides. Buttons actuate cleanly to switch between timers.
A rare find for serious chess collectors, horology enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a premium, tournament-grade vintage clock in museum-quality, boxed condition.

Specifications:
• Brand: Gardé (Ruhla / UMF)
• Era: Early 1970s
• Origin: German Democratic Republic (East Germany / GDR)
• Material: Solid Beech & Birch wood, Metal mechanisms, Plastic buttons/plungers

Seller's Story

We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers. Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Material
Wood
Designer/artist/maker
Gardé Analog Chess Clock - 1970- New in Box
Model/name
East Germany
Country of origin
Germany
Condition
Mint
Height
12.5 cm
Width
22 cm
Estimated period
1970-1980
The NetherlandsVerified
2725
Objects sold
100%
protop

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