hey folks, I came across @LouS very detailed posts about vintage JLC 2-register chronos that used UG movements, and started exploring a bit more (always a dangerous activity ... ) So I came across this JLC 2-register chronograph that's for sale. It's in steel, and said to be 37mm without crown. I consulted Zaf Basha's book (pages 74-77) and as far as I can tell about this watch for sale: 1. It has a UG calibre 285 , which is consistent as far as I know 2. The dial resembles the one in the book on p76 (see below) It looks quite patina-ed and faded, so it's not a recent redial, and I think it's not refinished (but I could be wrong!) 3. The serial dates it to around 1957/1958? 4. Inscription says 6-11-90. Bit odd, 1990? Was it a gift of a vintage watch to someone in 1990? Could I ask the experts (especially @LouS and @Noodia) : 1. Did these 2-register chronos ever come in SS in that 37mm size? Or is this chromed nickel? Or worse, is this a franken? 2. Does the movement look OK? (looks a bit mucky, probably needs a service) 3. Are there any other "red flags" or warning signs about the watch? Thanks in advance for your help folks!
I'm a little worried about the E's in JAEGER, but given the rest of the watch and the period it comes from I'd be inclined to say it's Kosher for Passover.
Heh heh thanks guys. And no I'm not Jewish though a childhood reading Asimov, Silverberg, Saul Bellow and Phillip Roth , plus the films of Woody Allen, taught me some Yiddish words (and a deep appreciation of pastrami). So it seems to check out ok? The inscription is weird though - can't figure it out - '90'?
I believe the dial is fine. The inscription is a head-scratcher, and will likely remain so. Always nice to find a "jumbo" from this era of smaller watches - it's from the 40's by the way, not the late 50s.
