Doxa Vintage Chronograph
Chronograph · Doxa, independent mid-range Swiss manufacturer historically renowned for robust tool and dress watches
Period: Vintage (1940s-1950s)
Type
Chronograph
Brand
Doxa, independent mid-range Swiss manufacturer historically renowned for robust tool and dress watches
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical chronograph caliber
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 36mm, thickness 12mm, lug-to-lug 43mm, lug width 18mm
Description
A charming and authentic vintage Doxa chronograph featuring a bi-compax layout and heavy natural patination on the dial. The classic 36mm stainless steel case proportions, pump pushers, and vintage typography capture the timeless elegance of mid-century tool watch design.
Key Features
Bi-compax chronograph layout, outer tachymeter scale, classic Arabic numerals, pump-style pushers, and distinctive vintage Doxa script branding
Dial Description
Patinated champagne-toned dial with Arabic numerals, two subsidiary registers for running seconds and chronograph minutes, blued steel hands, and an outer tachymeter scale
Case Material
Stainless steel with a polished finish
Crystal Type
Domed acrylic or hesalite crystal with signs of aging and wear
Bezel Details
Fixed smooth stainless steel bezel integrated into the case design
Crown & Pushers
Unsigned fluted pull-out crown flanked by two pump-style chronograph pushers
Bracelet or Strap
Currently head-only, requiring an 18mm vintage leather strap
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel press-fit or screw-down case back with historical factory hallmarks
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical chronograph caliber
Water Resistance
Not water resistant; historical vintage timepiece lacking modern gasket seals
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, featuring an outsourced ebauche movement common for the mid-20th century
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s-1950s
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war era of wristwatches where chronographs transitioned from pure laboratory/military instruments to sought-after civilian accessories.
Condition Notes
Fair to good vintage condition. The case shows moderate surface scratches and wear consistent with age. The dial exhibits significant tropical-style patination and spotting. The crystal has surface scuffs. Movement functionality cannot be guaranteed without an inspection.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $800 to $1,800 USD depending on the running condition of the movement and originality of internal parts
Care & Maintenance
Requires a complete mechanical overhaul by a vintage watch specialist. Keep away from water and moisture due to degraded vintage gaskets.
Similar Watches
Vintage chronographs from brands like Tissot, Certina, and Enicar from the same era utilizing similar ebauche movements
Interesting Facts
While Doxa is primarily famous today for their iconic Sub marine diving watches introduced in the late 1960s, they produced highly capable chronographs and dress watches during the mid-20th century.