A beautifully preserved piece of history from a private collection.
This is a rare opportunity to acquire a pristine example of the iconic U-BOAT Left Hook Automatic. While many early IFO-era models were worn heavily as daily "tool" watches, this particular piece (No. 0388) has been kept in a private collection and remains in hardly-worn, time-warp condition.
As I am thinning out my assembly to make room for new acquisitions, I will be offering several New Old Stock (NOS) and exceptionally well-preserved timepieces throughout the month.
This watch is a genuine survivor. It features the early IFO Group (Italo Fontana) branding, marking it as a piece of the brand’s original DNA before it became a global fashion powerhouse.
State: Hardly worn; the brushed steel case is crisp and the cream/ivory dial is flawless.
Movement: Swiss Made Automatic (ETA base), visible through the exhibition case back.
Serial Number: Limited Edition No. 0388, engraved on the case side.
Performance: Running well, keeping good time, and functioning exactly as it should.
Case: 53mm (excluding crown) brushed 316L stainless steel.
Dial: Cream/Ivory with bold Arabic numerals and the signature ruby-red jewel accent.
Strap: Original tan leather strap with the authentic U-BOAT branded stainless steel deployment butterfly clasp.
Features: Left-side "Left Hook" crown protection and date window at 4 o'clock.
Early IFO-era automatics are the most collectible models in the U-BOAT catalogue. Given the low serial number (sub-500), the high-grade Swiss mechanical movement, and the "time warp" condition, this is a significant find for enthusiasts.
Current specialist market valuations for early automatics in this condition typically range between £1,150 – £1,850.
Vintage & Antique Note: This is a vintage mechanical timepiece. While it is in museum-grade condition and running beautifully, please remember that vintage watches are mechanical instruments and may require future servicing to maintain peak performance.
Due Diligence: I have provided high-resolution photos and video to be as transparent as possible. Please use these as your primary guide to the condition. Do your own research on early IFO-era models to appreciate the rarity of a No. 0388 in this state. I am happy to provide additional photos or specific videos upon request.
Securely packaged and sent via fully insured, tracked, and signed-for delivery only.
Part of a curated private collection sale—see my other listings for more NOS pieces.