While the modern watchmaker Movado that we know of today is certainly not typically associated with high-end luxury watchmaking, the brand’s earlier years were filled with prestige as they earned a reputation as one of Switzerland’s finest watchmakers. By the 1940s, Movado had grown from relatively humble beginnings to one of the industry’s leading brands. As such, their watches were worn by some of the world’s elite and their chronograph models were particularly well-known for their excellent quality. Standing as a testament to that is the Movado chronograph model that we have here. Produced on special order for the Saudi Arabian king Abdulaziz Al Saud in the 1940s or 1950s, this example bears his name in black inscription at 12 o’clock on its beautifully aged silver dial. Manually wound and sporting a stunning case, this timepiece celebrates Movado’s history and the development of Saudi Arabia following the discovery of petroleum, a discovery that Abdulaziz Al Saud presided over.

The dial in attractive condition with only some very minor spotting and tarnishing. The case is very crisp, with nice lines and facets and the steps are very prominent and in good condition. There is only light surface wear to the case which is consistent with age and some minor signs of opening to the case back.

A wonderful testament to Movado's heritage as a significant player in the horology industry, the proverbial seal of approval that Abdulaziz Al Saud gave Movado to inscribe his name upon this watch shows just how finely they were perceived - and rightfully so.