Consul 17 Rubis Incabloc Chronograph Ref. 9070/9071
Chronograph / Tool Watch · Consul (Manufacture d'Horlogerie Consul S.A.). An independent Swiss brand established in 1900, known for quality chronographs and dress watches during the mid-20th century.
Period: Mid-Century Modern (Late 1940s-1950s). Stylistic indicators include the domed acrylic crystal, pump pushers, telemeter/tachymeter scales, and the specific typeface of the Arabic numerals typical of the post-WWII era.
Type
Chronograph / Tool Watch
Brand
Consul (Manufacture d'Horlogerie Consul S.A.). An independent Swiss brand established in 1900, known for quality chronographs and dress watches during the mid-20th century.
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical chronograph, 17 Jewels, Incabloc shock protection. Likely a Landeron 48, 148, or Venus 175/188 caliber, which were industry standards for this era.
Dimensions
35mm - 37mm diameter, 12mm thickness, 44mm lug-to-lug, 18mm lug width. This is a classic mid-sized vintage diameter that wears slightly larger due to the thin bezel.
Description
This Consul chronograph represents the quintessential post-war Swiss tool watch. It balances technical utility with an elegant aesthetic, featuring a dense but legible dial capable of measuring speed and distance. Its warm gold tones and complex scales make it a favorite for lovers of vintage neo-classical design.
Key Features
Double scale (Tachymeter/Telemeter) on the dial periphery, Incabloc shock protection signature, pump pushers, and the '17 Rubis' designation which was a hallmark of quality at the time.
Dial Description
Champagne/Silver sunburst dial with two sub-dials (small seconds at 9 and 30-minute counter at 3). Features applied Arabic numerals and baton indices, dauphine-style hands, and external Tachymeter and Telemeter scales in red and blue/black.
Case Material
Yellow Gold plating over a base metal (likely brass) or 18k Rose gold (often used by Consul). Case finishing is predominantly polished with significant wear and brassing visible on the pushers.
Crystal Type
Highly domed acrylic (Plexiglass). Shows minor surface scratches consistent with age; lacks AR coating.
Bezel Details
Fixed, thin polished bezel integrated into the case design to maximize the dial opening.
Crown & Pushers
Original fluted push-pull crown. Two cylindrical "pump" style pushers for start/stop (top) and reset (bottom) functions. Notable wear on the pusher plating.
Bracelet or Strap
Currently shown without a strap; contains a fixed or spring-bar lug system. Traditionally would be worn on a cognac or dark brown alligator/leather strap.
Caseback Details
Likely a solid stainless steel snap-on or screw-down caseback. Often features the Consul logo or serial numbers on the exterior or interior.
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical chronograph, 17 Jewels, Incabloc shock protection. Likely a Landeron 48, 148, or Venus 175/188 caliber, which were industry standards for this era.
Water Resistance
Non-water resistant. Vintage pump pushers and snap-back cases offer no protection against immersion.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made. Manufactured in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Utilized high-quality outsourced ebauche movements from Swiss specialists.
Age Estimate
Circa 1945-1955. The presence of 'Incabloc' text and the dial layout suggest the early golden age of mechanical chronographs.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratized chronograph era when Swiss manufacturers moved from military contracts to consumer sports and hobbyist watches, influencing the layout of modern racing chronographs.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. The dial remains remarkably clean with original lume. The case shows 'brassing' (plating wear) on the pushers and lugs. Verdigris (green oxidation) is visible on the spring bars. Movement condition unknown but visually the dial is well-preserved.
Value Estimate
Market value ranges from $600 to $1,200 depending on movement functionality and if the case is solid gold vs plated. A full service and a high-quality strap significantly impact desirability.
Care & Maintenance
Requires manual winding every 24-36 hours when in use. Do not engage chronographs underwater. Service every 5-7 years to prevent oil drying. Keep away from strong magnets and moisture.
Similar Watches
Vintage Breitling Premiers of the same era, Gallet Flying Officer, or Heuer pre-Carrera chronographs. The main difference is the movement caliber and brand prestige.
Interesting Facts
Consul was often awarded for their precision and was a relatively prestigious mid-tier brand in the 1950s, sometimes producing watches for the retail giant 'Tiffany & Co.'