Founded in 1932 by Georges Gagnebin and Armand Nicolet in the Jura mountains of Switzerland, G. Gagnebin & Cie established itself under the brand name Niga as a maker of exceptional chronographs, precision chronometers and pocket watches. In the 1940s and 1950s, the company created timepieces distinguished by their architectural design language and refined dial layouts. Only a handful of these pieces have survived the decades – each one today a rare discovery.
The chronograph presented here is a fascinating example of mid-20th-century design innovation. Its two-tone dial combines a glossy black outer ring with an anthracite-grey center, featuring both tachymeter and telemeter scales, executed in refined copper gilt print. Particularly striking is the pink gold bezel, engraved and enameled in blue to indicate the hours – a detail of outstanding rarity and elegance.
The case displays a bold geometric design, with sharply downturned lugs and rectangular pushers, giving the chronograph a powerful presence. The engravings on the caseback remain deep and crisp – a clear sign of the exceptional state of preservation.
Over 70 years after its manufacture, this piece presents itself virtually untouched, making it a true “time capsule” – a piece of watchmaking history that will captivate both connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Condition Report
Dial: flawlessly preserved – perfect anthracite-grey surface – black outer ring – signed "Niga Fab Suisse".
Case: 37.5 mm stainless steel case – minimal storage marks – sharp lugs – deep engravings on the back – rectangular chronograph pushers.
Movement: manual-wind caliber – values on the timegrapher: rate: +26s/day, amplitude: 241, beat error: 4.3.
Serial number: 195xxx
Int.Exe.: 78318