Bovet Mono-Rattrapante 5347 Black Galvanic Dial

This extremely rare Bovet Mono-Rattrapante Ref. 5347 dates back to the 1940s and ranks among the most fascinating chronographs of its era. Housed in a large 38 mm stainless steel case, it captivates with its highly sought-after black galvanic dial, which gives the watch an exceptionally strong and charismatic presence on the wrist.

The prestigious manufacture Bovet, founded in 1822, has long enjoyed an outstanding reputation for technically sophisticated and distinctive timepieces. During the 1940s, Bovet introduced the Mono-Rattrapante — a two-register chronograph featuring an equally rare and ingenious complication.

Its operation is as elegant as it is technically refined: the chronograph is started via the upper pusher. When the lower pusher is pressed and held, the central seconds hand stops, allowing an intermediate time to be read. Once the pusher is released, the hand instantly jumps forward to the position it would have reached had it not been stopped. This mechanism is reminiscent of a classic rattrapante (split-seconds) complication — however, executed with only a single chronograph hand, hence the model name Mono-Rattrapante. Powering the watch is the hand-wound Valjoux 84 caliber, developed and produced exclusively for Bovet Mono-Rattrapante chronographs during the 1930s and 1940s.

The present example stands out for its great condition. The black galvanic dial is exceptionally well preserved and displays a wonderfully authentic vintage character, enhanced by the original radium luminous material in the large Arabic numerals and hands. Combined with the dark dial and the large case diameter, the watch has a remarkably bold and commanding wrist presence.

Completing the ensemble is a vintage stainless steel bracelet by Fab. P-Eyes, which perfectly complements the watch and further enhances its harmonious vintage look.

This Bovet Mono-Rattrapante combines mechanical sophistication with striking vintage aesthetics. The interplay of a rare complication, large stainless steel case, and black dial in top condition makes it an exceptionally hard-to-replace collector’s watch of significant historical and horological importance.

Condition report
Dial: greatly preserved with authentic patina – original and matching luminous material in hands and numerals – perfectly preserved silver printing – signed "Bovet swiss".

Case: large 38 mm stainless steel case with intact lugs – light signs of wear/storage – deep engravings on the case back – large original pushers, original crown – small scratch on the acrylic crystal at 5 o’clock.

Movement: hand-wound Valjoux 84 caliber (produced exclusively for Bovet) – timegrapher results: +7 s/day, amplitude 284, beat error 0.9.

Bracelet: Fab. P-Eyes stainless steel mesh bracelet in mint condition.

Serial number: 43xx (1940er)

Int.Exe.: 45245