Vintage Monarch De Luxe 17-Jewel Chronograph – Classic Mid-Century Telemeter Dial
Up for sale is a beautiful and honest example of a mid-century vintage Monarch De Luxe two-register chronograph. This piece features a striking military- or pilot-adjacent aesthetic, highlighted by an original cream/silver dial with elegant patina, crisp Arabic numerals, and an outer Base 1 Mile Telemeter scale. The dial is perfectly accented by a vibrant, contrast-heavy red central chronograph seconds hand and blued steel sub-register hands.
Inside, the watch houses a reliable Swiss-made 17-jewel manual-wind chronograph movement imported by the Blydes Watch Co (stamped with the correct US import code EUR on the balance cock). The classic cam-lever construction is a hallmark of the iconic Landeron 48/148 architecture, which is a favorite among vintage watch collectors for its robust reliability and serviceability.
Condition Report:
Movement: The 17-jewel manual-wind movement is clean, winds smoothly, and is currently running. The chronograph features start, stop, and reset as intended via the dual pushers.
Case: The mid-case shows honest vintage wear and character with plating loss consistent with age, giving it a true tool-watch aesthetic. The screw-down case back is stainless steel and carries the internal "Blydes Watch Co / Fond Acier Inoxydable" signatures.
Dial & Hands: Original dial shows an incredibly attractive, uniform aging/patina. Text and tracking remain sharp and highly legible. Hands are original and intact.
Crystal: Domed acrylic crystal is clear with minor hairline scuffs that do not distract from the gorgeous dial.
Strap: Paired with an eye-catching, vibrant green leather strap with contrasting cream minimalist stitching that makes the red chronograph hand pop beautifully.
Please review the high-resolution photos closely as they form a core part of the description. Feel free to reach out with any questions before bidding!
Dimensions & Shipping:
Case Diameter (excluding crown): 35 mm
Lug Width: 18 mm
Shipping: Securely packaged and shipped fully tracked via USPS.
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