Chronometer Lyger Pocket Watch
Pocket Watch (Open-face dress pocket watch) · Lyger (Chronometer Lyger), an independent or regional historical watch brand from the mid-20th century era of mechanical pocket watches.
Period: Vintage (Mid-20th Century, circa 1930s-1950s) indicated by the classic enamel dial, Breguet-style arabic numerals, blued steel hands, and traditional bridge movement layout.
Type
Pocket Watch (Open-face dress pocket watch)
Brand
Lyger (Chronometer Lyger), an independent or regional historical watch brand from the mid-20th century era of mechanical pocket watches.
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical movement featuring 15 jewels, adjusted for positions, traditional striped finishing on the bridges, and a standard balance wheel.
Dimensions
Case diameter approximately 48-50 mm, thickness approximately 12-14 mm, typical for standard open-face pocket watches of the era.
Description
This classic open-face pocket watch by Lyger embodies the timeless elegance of mid-20th-century horology. Featuring a pristine white enamel dial contrasted by striking black Arabic numerals and delicate blued steel hands, it offers exceptional legibility. The sub-seconds register at six o'clock adds traditional balance to the layout. Turning the watch over reveals a mechanical hand-wound movement adorned with Geneva stripes and jewel bearings, highlighting the traditional craftsmanship of its era.
Key Features
White enamel dial, Chronometer Lyger signature, subsidiary seconds at 6 o'clock, classic top-mounted bow and crown, decorated 15-jewel manual-wind movement.
Dial Description
White enamel dial featuring bold black printed Arabic numerals, outer minute track with railroad track design, subsidiary seconds dial at the 6 o'clock position, elegant blued steel hands, and the 'Chronometer LYGER' signature beneath the 12 o'clock position.
Case Material
Chromed or nickel-plated base metal / stainless steel with a polished finish and noticeable surface wear.
Crystal Type
Acrylic or mineral glass dome crystal offering clear visibility of the enamel dial.
Bezel Details
Smooth, fixed bezel integrated into the open-face case design.
Crown & Pushers
Top-mounted onion-style winding crown flanked by a decorative bow loop for attaching a pocket watch chain.
Bracelet or Strap
Pocket watch bow designed to be paired with a traditional watch chain, fob, or ribbon.
Caseback Details
Solid snap-on or hinged case back featuring visible surface scratches, interior stamping with a maker's hallmark logo (ISI or similar) and stamped serial number '5210374 A'.
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical movement featuring 15 jewels, adjusted for positions, traditional striped finishing on the bridges, and a standard balance wheel.
Water Resistance
None (Not water resistant). Avoid contact with water, rain, or high humidity as historical pocket watch cases lack modern rubber gaskets.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss or European manufacture, utilizing traditional mechanical movement architecture common in mid-century pocket timepieces.
Age Estimate
Likely 1940s to 1950s based on the dial typography, movement construction, and casing styles.
Cultural Significance
Pocket watches represent the bridge between early portable timekeeping and modern wristwatches, serving as indispensable tools for professionals, railway workers, and gentlemen throughout the late 19th and mid-20th centuries.
Condition Notes
The case shows moderate surface scratching consistent with age and regular handling. The enamel dial is remarkably clean with clear markings. The movement appears clean with intact functional components, though a service is recommended for optimal timekeeping. Overall condition is Very Good for a vintage pocket watch.
Value Estimate
Estimated between $150 to $400 USD depending on exact working condition, movement accuracy, brand historical documentation, and inclusion of original accessories or chains.
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from strong magnetic fields and moisture. Manual winding should be performed gently until resistance is felt. Professional servicing every 5-7 years is recommended to keep the mechanical movement clean and lubricated.
Similar Watches
Vintage open-face pocket watches from brands like Omega, Longines, Tissot, and Cortebert from the same era.
Interesting Facts
Enamel dials were prized for their longevity, as they do not fade or yellow with age like traditional painted or lacquered dials, though they remain fragile against impact.