Usually when things are complicated, it means more stress, more work, and more effort, but in the end, it's worth it. The same holds true for vintage wristwatches, where gifted artisans and engineers from years gone by labored months and years to create complicated timepieces that transcend art and talent. When it comes to vintage wristwatches, the highest realms of respect and value are reserved for these watches that do much more than merely tell time.

The very fine, complicated Swiss wristwatch featured in today's offering is a prime original example of this phenomenon. It is has great styling, is large, and is in superior original condition.

Was it sold by a manufacturer whose perceived brand value make it a five-figure watch? No. But was it finely crafted during the golden era of Swiss watchmaking when only a relatively few maisons dared to craft complicated wristwatches that balanced elegance with functionality of capabilities. We think so.

One of the most appealing qualities of this watch is its larger-than-usual 37mm case size. In an era when most men’s watches measured closer to 32–34mm, this oversized case gives the watch remarkable wrist presence without sacrificing elegance. Combined with its slim profile and beautifully sculpted lugs, it wears as comfortably as a modern watch while retaining all the charm of a 1940s classic.

Its aesthetic is equally compelling. The warm glow of 18K gold frames a finely balanced silver dial, decorated with applied gold Arabic numerals and a detailed outer date track. The splash of blue from the central date pointer adds a touch of artistry, while the triple-date apertures and subsidiary seconds dial lend complexity and refinement. It is, quite simply, a beautiful watch to behold. Its 18K gold case has a light rose tone.

Resulting from a partnership between the two fine Swiss firms Titus and Ebauches S.A., which became ETA, it is powered by the ETA 1162 engine.

We purchased this watch because it checked a lot of desirable boxes. Beautiful? For sure. Larger than most? Yes. Finely crafted movement? Yes. Remarkable original condition? Yes!

We were fortunate to acquire it in such gorgeous all-original condition. When we acquired it the movement needed some work. It appears that because of that it had only ever been lightly and carefully worn and then had sat untouched in storage for decades.

Its untouched original dial is mint with hardly even any fading or toning. Its unpolished case is just short of perfect mint with only very slight wear.

Four of our Master Watchmakers worked for the last four years restoring the movement to breathe new life into it. The final servicing was performed by one of our Master Watchmakers who used to be the watchmaker for an authorized Rolex dealer and was given training by Rolex at their Beverly Hills Service Center to be an authorized Rolex watchmaker. Photos of the inside available upon request.

For the finishing touch, we have equipped it with a brand new oil tanned leather strap making it ready for immediate enjoyment.

These complicated vintage watches made before the widespread use of shock resistance can certainly be worn and enjoyed but are best not used as your daily driver.

Included with the purchase is a 90-day C.O.T. international warranty on the movement and its function, a full-page custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate attesting to its performance.

Manufacturer: Titus
City of origin: Geneva, Switzerland
Year built: 1940's
Case number: 147,929
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Day, Date, Month, Subsidiary Seconds
Model: Triple Date with Moonphase
Designed for: Men
Case material: Solid 18K gold lightly tinted rose in color
Case condition: Essentially mint with the slightest bit of wear and one small indention mostly hidden between the top lugs. It is in gorgeous original condition and has never polished. The facets and lines are crisp. Our photos couldn't begin to do it justice.
Dimensions: 37mm wide by 43mm long lug tip-to-tip
Dial: Silver, outer date track, dial notes it is non-magnetic, apertures for day, month, and moon phase, sub dials in English, original and untouched, beautiful mint condition
Hands: Original, gold "lances" , blue date
Movement markings: Titus Geneve
Movement: ETA 1162 finished by Titus, 17 ruby jewels, rhodium plated, index regulator
Jewels: 17 rubies
Band: Oil tanned, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn
Width between lugs: 19mm
Crystal: Acrylic, excellent condition
Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system.
Warranty: 90-day C.O.T. international warranty.
Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our watches. If you are in any way unsatisfied with the watch we will fully refund the purchase price anytime within 7 days after the watch has been received. Our goal is to exceed our client's expectations throughout the buying experience.

All watches are packaged carefully and mailed double boxed in specially constructed, reinforced shipping boxes designed for high value items. All watches are sent fully insured with signature required. Most of our domestic shipping is done through FedEx. At times we will also use USPS Express Mail, and we can accommodate most requests for your preferred carrier. International shipments are sent USPS International Express Mail or FedEx.

The purchase price will be the declared value of the merchandise on any required customs forms. The payment of all customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Also note that water resistance of vintage watches can no longer be guaranteed and is not covered under the watch's warranty. We do not recommend getting a vintage watch wet, even one that was originally designed to be waterproof.

To get an idea of how this watch will look on the wrist, please use the Watch Sizing Guide

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