"As the big watch enthusiasts that we are we appretiate fine vintage watches in general. However once in a while we find timepieces that are so much more than fine. Watches that leaves no one unaffected - this watch is one of those. It's not that many times in a life time that you'll find a waterproof Clamshell case, vintage chronograph with Venus 150 in a very good condition. We hope that you'll appretiate it as much as we do!"
//Chris
The Watch
Let us begin with the movement. The
Venus Cal. 150 is a hand-winding column wheel chronograph movement. It is the base movement in the family of Venus movement. Cal. 151 is similar but without the beveled edge of Cal. 150.
Venus was established in 1923. They became famous for chronograph movements, many of which were used by high end Swiss brands. The Venus column wheel chronograph calibres are widely regarded today as being the finest ever produced and remain in great demand.
The case is a rare ”Clamshell” case, patent No. 189190 for a waterproof case. It was designed with a distinctive "four-screw" method of retaining the case back by applying compression to a gasket between the back and the crystal.
This design of watch cases was used in the Gallet Clamshell, Gallet's first water resistant chronograph. Cases of this patented waterproof design were used by a number of other watch manufacturers. The patent number 189190 appears in watch case backs. These are often referred to by collectors as clamshell cases after the Gallet original.
Specific Information
Object nr: 202
Maker: Perfecta
Model: ”Clamshell”
Year: 1940’s
Movement: Venus 150
Material: Steel
Original crown: Yes
Dimensions: 34mm, without crown
Strap/Bracelet: A new leather strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No
Serviced: The watch have been serviced in 2022. We leave 3 months of warranty from date of purchase
The Condition
It's hard to believe that this watch is over 75 years old!! Time as well as early owner have been kind to this amazing watch. The watch is as you can see well preserved and in a stunning condition despite the age. The original dial is in an extraordinary condition with beautiful ageing lumes, index and hands. If you look really(!) close You can see a really small mark at 6, but besides that - is amazing! The case just got some small and thin signs of wear. The watch really is as nice as it looks in the pictures.
Sold "as is”!
The pictures is a part of the description, study therefore the pictures carefully!