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Lot #1599

Tissot 18k Gold Single Button Chronograph 33.3 Movement

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Introduction

Founded in the mid-1800s, Tissot started its life as a watchmaker determined to create finely crafted yet accessible pocket watches and other timing instruments. In 1930, they collaborated with Omega to create Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogère (SSIH), which became a crucial element within the creation of the Swatch Group. This collaboration also proved to be very important for Tissot as it allowed Tissot to use Omega’s highly-renowned chronograph movements, which enabled Tissot to become a timekeeper for several events and races. One such event was a 1938 ski race in the village of Villar, near Tissot’s hometown in the Jura mountains. As the timekeeper, Tissot used a multiscale monopusher chronograph much like the example we have here to time the races and events. With a 37mm 18kt yellow gold case, this timepiece would have been the ultimate in luxury timekeeping at the time. Fitted with a stunningly aged silver dial, this example boasts a blue and red telemeter scale in its center and a blue tachymetre scale along its dial periphery, proving its usefulness as a timing instrument. Presented in wonderful condition considering its age and featuring a hinged caseback alongside its single chronograph pusher at 2 o’clock, this timepiece is a wonderfully unique piece of vintage watchmaking that has been preserved over the decades, as it so deserves.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$4,000 – $6,000

The Details

Brand

Tissot

Dimensions

37mm x 13.5mm

Model

Monopusher Multiscale Chronograph

Movement

Manual-wind Omega cal. 33.3

Reference

6159

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

Circa 1940s

Condition

Excellent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

Silvered two-tone

THE DIAL

Featuring different tones, textures and multi-scaled graduations in various colors, the dial is a real sight to behold.

THE CONSTRUCTION

A behemoth in its day, the Monopusher's 37mm construction would have been massive for its time. Combined with its monopusher and large winding crown, this timepiece is certainly not indicative of the timepieces that the masses wore.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in excellent overall condition. The hinged case is in fine condition and does not have any dents. Lugs are full and well proportioned The dial is in excellent condition showing a light even patina that highlights the multiple tones and colors of the dial. The dial with minor spotting and oxidation that is consistent with the age of the watch.

Our Perspective

With its beautifully executed dial, luxurious 18kt construction, and impressive manual-wind movement, this Monopusher provides a wonderful insight into vintage Tissot and the lengths they went to create their timepieces. The watch is furthermore in very original and well preserved condition and consigned by a very astute international collector.

Sam Hines

Managing Director