Bovet Mono-Rattrapante 5347 Black

This very rare Bovet Mono-Rattrapante 5347 dates back to the 1940s and features a coveted black Galvanic dial housed in a large 38mm stainless steel case.

Bovet, a traditional and renowned watch manufacturer, was founded in 1822. Introduced in the 1940s, the Bovet Mono-Rattrapante is a two-register chronograph with a rare complication. By pressing the upper pusher, the chronograph is started. If you hold the lower pusher down, the second hand stops and you can read an intermediate time. When the lower pusher is released again, the second hand jumps back to the position where it would be if it had not been stopped. This function is similar to a rattrapante (split seconds complication), but it uses only one hand, hence the name mono rattrapante. The mechanics are provided by the manual-wound Valjoux 84 caliber, which was developed and produced exclusively for Bovet's Mono-Rattrapante chronographs in the 1930s and 1940s.

The present specimen is the reference 5347 with the coveted black galvanic dial, which is preserved in great condition. The beautiful vintage look is created thanks to the original radium lume inside the large Arabic numerals and hands. The two subdials at 9 and 3 o'clock show the small seconds and the 30-minute counter.

On the wrist, the watch offers a fine presence and aesthetic looks, not only thanks to the dial, but also because of the large 38mm stainless steel case with its thin bezel. Most watches from this period were no larger than 36 mm, which makes this chronograph even rarer.

Condition report
Dial: clean glossy black dial - no significant scratches or the like - natural patina - original and matching lume color in hands and hour markers - signed "SWISS".

Case: large 38mm stainless steel case with intact lugs - hardly any wear marks - intact engravings on the back - original pushers, original crown - small scratch on the acrylic crystal at 5 o'clock.

Movement: manual wind caliber Valjoux 84 (made exclusively for Bovet) - rate deviation: +28s/day, amplitude: 231, beat error: 1.3.

Bracelet: no-name vintage style stainless steel mesh bracelet with a folding clasp - lightweight and very comfortable to wear.

Summing-Up
This Bovet Mono-Rattrapante Chronograph combines fascinating mechanics and beautiful vintage aesthetics, due to the black dial in TOP condition and the large case. A very hard to replace vintage collector's item.

Serial number: 43xx (1940er)

Int.Exe.: 45245