Cirsa Special Vintage Sub-Seconds Dress Watch
Vintage Dress Watch with Sub-Seconds · Cirsa, a vintage Swiss brand or private label from the mid-20th century, operating during the robust era of independent Swiss watchmakers
Period: Vintage Era (1940s-1950s) characterized by minimalist round cases, elegant numerals, and sub-seconds layout
Type
Vintage Dress Watch with Sub-Seconds
Brand
Cirsa, a vintage Swiss brand or private label from the mid-20th century, operating during the robust era of independent Swiss watchmakers
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical movement with a small seconds subdial, likely a Swiss cylinder or lever escapement caliber common to the mid-20th century
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 33-35 mm, thickness around 9-10 mm, lug-to-lug approximately 40 mm, lug width 18 mm
Description
This charming vintage timepiece from Cirsa embodies the classic design language of post-war horology. Housed in a round case with slender lugs, the patinated cream dial features bold Arabic numerals and a traditional sub-seconds register at 6 o'clock. Preserved within a protective plastic pouch, this piece serves as a wonderful project watch or an authentic snapshot of mid-century everyday horology.
Key Features
Vintage Arabic numeral typography, sub-seconds register at 6 o'clock, classic mid-century case proportions, and distinct historic dial patina
Dial Description
Off-white to cream-toned patinated dial with Arabic numerals, outer minute/seconds track, dark baton hands, and a sub-seconds register at the 6 o'clock position
Case Material
Gold-plated or base metal case with visible wear and patina
Crystal Type
Domed acrylic or hesalite crystal showing moderate surface scratching and aging
Bezel Details
Fixed smooth rounded bezel integrated into the case design
Crown & Pushers
Standard unsigned small onion or fluted crown located at the 3 o'clock position
Bracelet or Strap
Currently unmounted or stored in a plastic bag; historically paired with a vintage leather strap
Caseback Details
Solid snap-on metal case back, likely featuring minimal engravings or plain finish
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical movement with a small seconds subdial, likely a Swiss cylinder or lever escapement caliber common to the mid-20th century
Water Resistance
None (vintage non-waterproof dress watch)
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, featuring a traditional outsourced ébauche movement typical of regional watch production during the mid-1900s
Age Estimate
Circa 1940s to 1950s
Cultural Significance
Reflects the accessibility of mechanical wristwatches during the mid-20th century, serving as reliable daily dress pieces for the general workforce prior to mass digitization
Condition Notes
Fair to poor vintage condition. The case shows heavy plating wear and oxidation. The dial exhibits significant spotting, aging, and patina. The crystal is scratched. Movement functionality is untested and requires a professional service.
Value Estimate
Low collector market value, typically ranging from $50 to $150 depending on whether the movement is functional and complete
Care & Maintenance
Requires complete mechanical overhaul by a vintage watch specialist. Avoid all contact with moisture due to degraded gaskets and lack of modern water resistance.
Similar Watches
Vintage dress watches from brands like Tissot, Certina, Enicar, and Cyma from the same era, featuring similar sub-seconds layouts and gold-plated cases
Interesting Facts
Brands like Cirsa represent the vast ecosystem of independent Swiss assemblers and watchmakers that thrived before the widespread adoption of quartz movements in the 1970s