GUBELIN CHRONO 18k
Specifications
Maker: Gübelin
Model: Chronograph
Year: 1940's
Serial: xxxx
Material: 18K Gold / Valjoux 22
Dial: Salmon Nipple Indexes
Dimensions: 35mm
Crystal: Plexi
Clasp: Gold Plated Bracelet
Box & Papers: None
Legacy
Richie – Snatch
Directed by Guy Ritchie, Snatch is a British crime comedy that features a host of quick-witted, streetwise characters navigating the gritty London underworld. Richie (the character I created based on this vibe) would fit right in here, a hustler who values sharp style and streetwise flair, just as many characters in Snatch embody. This watch, an elegant and rare Gübelin chronograph, would bring an unexpected touch of class to an otherwise rough-and-tumble aesthetic.
Suzy Bishop – Moonrise Kingdom
In Wes Anderson’s Moonrise Kingdom, Suzy Bishop is a free-spirited young girl on a runaway adventure, wrapped in the nostalgic tones and quirky atmosphere that define Anderson’s films. Suzy’s curiosity and longing for a world beyond her own could easily transfer to an appreciation for vintage objects, like the Gübelin watch. In the story, her fascination with Richie’s watch reflects her interest in a life of elegance, far removed from her small-town reality.
Gustave H. – The Grand Budapest Hotel
Gustave H., the charismatic and meticulously polished concierge in Wes Anderson’s The Grand Budapest Hotel, embodies a deep love for refinement, etiquette, and timeless style. Played by Ralph Fiennes, Gustave has an appreciation for luxury that borders on obsession, making him the ideal character to admire a beautifully crafted vintage timepiece. In the fictional story, Gustave would appreciate the Gübelin’s history and craftsmanship, viewing it as an extension of his own refined persona.
How to pair it
The Morning Power Meeting
Start the day with a bold yet sophisticated statement. The Gübelin Chronograph, with its warm, refined salmon dial and gold-plated bracelet, elevates a classic navy suit, adding a timeless warmth that’s just subtle enough to intrigue. The watch’s vintage charm blends seamlessly with a white Oxford shirt, creating a perfect canvas for the subtle, textured dial to shine. A deep burgundy silk tie and brown monk-strap shoes bring depth to the ensemble without overwhelming the watch’s elegance. This look is ideal for early boardroom meetings or impactful presentations, capturing a vintage sensibility with modern power. This watch speaks to a level of class that commands respect without needing to say a word.
Weekend Brunch in the City
For a casual yet polished weekend look, pair the Gübelin Chronograph with a relaxed, earth-toned cardigan and classic olive chinos. The salmon dial adds an understated pop of color, and the gold-plated bracelet gives a hint of vintage flair, perfectly balancing the casual look with refined detail. The relaxed fit of the cardigan paired with a white t-shirt is elevated by the watch's elegance, making it the ideal accessory to transition effortlessly from a cozy café brunch to an afternoon gallery visit. Complete the look with white leather sneakers for a touch of modernity, making the ensemble versatile, comfortable, and unmistakably stylish.
Evening Cocktails and Fine Dining
For an evening that calls for sophistication, let the Gübelin Chronograph take center stage against a refined, minimalist palette. The salmon dial becomes a subtle focal point when paired with a charcoal grey turtleneck and a double-breasted black blazer. Black trousers and polished loafers complete the look, offering a sleek, monochromatic foundation that highlights the unique vintage hue and craftsmanship of the watch. This outfit speaks to a refined sense of style that’s equally at home in an upscale cocktail bar or a Michelin-starred restaurant. The Gübelin’s 18K gold case and classic Valjoux movement lend a touch of old-world charm to a modern, effortlessly chic ensemble.
Condition
The Gübelin Chronograph from the 1940s is a rare gem from an era when elegance met mechanical sophistication. This piece, with its 18K gold case and powered by the revered Valjoux 22 movement, showcases the subtle refinement and attention to detail that defined mid-century Swiss watchmaking.
The dial is a beautiful salmon hue, with unique "nipple" indexes that add a touch of depth and texture to its layout. It’s a warm, inviting shade that has likely mellowed over the years, taking on a patina that speaks to its history and rarity. The 35mm case size, while modest by today’s standards, exudes classic proportions, and its charm lies in the understated elegance that feels both timeless and versatile. The gold-plated bracelet enhances this luxurious touch, though it shows the natural, graceful signs of wear that you’d expect from a piece of this vintage.
Though it comes without its original box or papers, the charm of this Gübelin lies in its character—qualities that only come from decades of careful use and admiration. This is a piece for collectors who value provenance and timeless design over pristine, untouched condition. It’s the type of watch that tells a story, not just of time, but of taste and refinement in an era when craft was king.
To ensure it performs as beautifully as it looks, the watch will undergo meticulous servicing by Zeitglass upon purchase, providing you with a 2-year mechanical warranty for added peace of mind.
The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.
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