This is a military chronograph from the 1940s with a Spillman case, black galvanic dial and Valjoux 22 movement.
Military chronographs had to be particularly robust for obvious reasons. Therefore, they were equipped with screw-down case backs to guarantee water resistance. They also had to be shock resistant and feature a reliable movement. The Mulco Chronograph reference 2501 presented here meets all these criteria.
The large 38mm case of this watch was made by one of the most famous case makers from that time: Spillman S.A. Recognizable by its beveled, turned down lugs, the Spillman case has a distinctive look that is much appreciated by vintage collectors of today. Another distinctive feature are the inverted chronograph pushers.
This military chronograph was owned by a German officer in the 1940s. The indication is given by the engravings of the swastika and the letter "M" (Marine) on the case back.
Mulco chronographs with a black dial are particularly sought after, as with the specimen here. It features two subdials and large Arabic hour numerals, which are filled with old luminous material. The small hand in the 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock has the shape of an aviator. The central chrono seconds hand is red and perfectly visible on the black background. Overall, the dial has a harmonious and contrasting vintage look thanks to the gold-colored print on the black background.
Technically, this chronograph is also equipped with high quality. At that time, the high-quality manual winding caliber Valjoux 22 was found only in chronographs of the upper price range.
Condition description.
Dial: very good original condition - authentic, natural patina - without scratches - fully intact luminous material in hands and markers - signed "Swiss Made".
Case: intact lugs - natural wear marks - sharp engravings on case back.
Movement: manual winding caliber Valjoux 22 - rates: rate deviation: -18 s/day, amplitude: 317, beat error: 1.9. Starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph to 12 works fine.
Conclusion
Great military Spillman chronograph with a rare black dial in excellent condition. A special collector's watch that combines rarity and quality.
Int.Exe.: 17418