Eberhard & Co. Split-Seconds Chronograph 18K Rose Gol Ref. 1001473

A particularly fascinating chronograph from the pioneering days of wristwatch chronograph making.

Founded in 1887 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, Eberhard & Co. established itself as one of the important innovators in mechanical chronograph watchmaking. From its earliest years, the manufacture focused on precision timing instruments, introducing its first wristwatch chronograph in 1919. Throughout the 1930s, Eberhard continued to push the boundaries of chronograph design, developing increasingly sophisticated mechanisms, including its early split-seconds chronographs.

This exceptional example, dating to circa 1940, is a beautiful expression of that pioneering spirit.

The watch is housed in an impressive 39 mm 18K rose gold case, a remarkably generous size for a wristwatch of this period. At a time when most watches were considerably smaller, its substantial proportions give the watch a striking presence on the wrist.

Another particularly attractive feature is the hinged caseback, revealing the beautifully constructed mechanical movement within. It is a wonderful detail that adds to the character and historical appeal of this timepiece.

Beyond its appearance, however, the real fascination lies in its complicated chronograph mechanism.

At the heart of the watch is the manually wound Eberhard calibre 1600, based on the Valjoux 65. Developed during an important period in the evolution of mechanical chronographs, this movement represents the technical ingenuity for which Eberhard became particularly respected.

The split-seconds, or rattrapante, complication is among the most fascinating functions in traditional chronograph watchmaking. Unlike a conventional chronograph, which measures one elapsed time, a rattrapante features two superimposed chronograph seconds hands. Both start together, but one can be stopped independently to record an intermediate time while the other continues running. When released, the stopped hand instantly catches up with the running hand.

This ingenious mechanism was particularly useful for timing events involving multiple competitors or successive intervals, such as sporting competitions and other precision timing applications. Its construction requires additional mechanical components and exceptionally careful adjustment, making it considerably more demanding to manufacture and maintain than a conventional chronograph.

Eberhard’s commitment to this field is reflected in its history: the manufacture introduced its first two-pusher split-seconds chronograph in 1939, placing this watch within a particularly interesting chapter of its technical development.

Combining an unusually large rose gold case, a hinged caseback and a chronograph complication, this Eberhard & Co. is much more than an elegant vintage wristwatch. It is a fascinating survivor from an era when watchmakers were exploring the possibilities of mechanical timekeeping and pushing the boundaries of what could be achieved on the wrist.