Tell Vintage Date 'C-Shape' Tonneau
Dress/Casual Sport Watch · Tell (Montres Tell SA); an independent Swiss brand active during the mid-20th century, typically using third-party movements (ebauches).
Period: Modernist/Funk (1970s) characterized by the oversized tonneau case shell, integrated lug aesthetic, and the horizontal linear textured fumé dial.
Type
Dress/Casual Sport Watch
Brand
Tell (Montres Tell SA); an independent Swiss brand active during the mid-20th century, typically using third-party movements (ebauches).
Movement
Manual-wind mechanical movement (likely FHF or AS caliber), 17 jewels, Incabloc-style shock protection, approximately 38-42 hour power reserve.
Dimensions
36mm diameter, 11mm thickness, 42mm lug-to-lug, 18mm lug width. Wears larger due to the square-ish 'TV dial' silhouette.
Description
A classic example of 1970s 'High Street' Swiss watchmaking, this Tell features a bold tan-to-brown gradient dial that catches the light beautifully. The 'C-shape' or tonneau case provides a substantial wrist presence without being overly heavy, representing the era's shift toward more experimental silhouettes.
Key Features
Horizontal 'corduroy' dial texture; oversized tonneau case; 17-jewel shock-protected movement; 'Swiss Made' hallmark at 6 o'clock.
Dial Description
Gradient brown/gold fumé with horizontal linear texture; applied gold-tone baton indices; gold-tone baton hands with luminous strips; date window at 3 o'clock with white background.
Case Material
Base metal bezel with stainless steel back; combination of polished chamfers and sunburst brushed top surfaces.
Crystal Type
Acrylic/Plexiglass, box-domed profile; shows minor surface 'polywatchable' scratches.
Bezel Details
Fixed, integrated into the tonneau case design with high-polish finishing on the outer sloped edges.
Crown & Pushers
Small, recessed push-pull crown at 3 o'clock; unsigned and likely original to the period.
Bracelet or Strap
Aftermarket brown suede/nu-buck leather strap with matching stitching and a simple pin buckle.
Caseback Details
Screw-down or snap-on solid stainless steel back; typical markings include 'Stainless Steel Back' and shock protection branding.
Movement Type
Manual-wind mechanical movement (likely FHF or AS caliber), 17 jewels, Incabloc-style shock protection, approximately 38-42 hour power reserve.
Water Resistance
Non-water resistant; historically rated as 'Water Protected', but should be treated as splash-only at best in its current vintage state.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made; manufactured in the Jura region of Switzerland using standard horological components of the era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-1975 based on the dial texture and specific case geometry common to the late quartz-crisis transition.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'design first' ethos of the 1970s where dials and case shapes became more expressive and colorful to compete with emerging electronics.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the case maintains sharp edges suggesting it has not been over-polished. The dial is clean with no visible oxidation. Minimal scratches on the acrylic crystal.
Value Estimate
$150 - $350 USD depending on the internal movement condition and the presence of original components.
Care & Maintenance
Service every 5-7 years; avoid all water contact as vintage seals are likely decayed; wind daily at the same time for best accuracy; store in a dry environment.
Similar Watches
Omega Constellation 'C-Shape', Tissot PR 516, or Certina Blue Ribbon. These alternatives typically offer higher-tier in-house movements but similar aesthetics.
Interesting Facts
Tell is often associated with the 'William Tell' brand imagery, though many of these smaller Swiss brands disappeared during the 1980s as the industry consolidated.