Doxa Chronograph Exotic Two-Tone Dial

This Doxa chronograph from the 1940s brings together everything discerning collectors value in an early steel chronograph: an exotic two-tone dial, a generously sized 36 mm case for the period with a screw-down caseback and pump chronograph pushers.

It is precisely this combination that makes the watch so exceptional. While most chronographs of the era measured around 34 mm in diameter, this example offers noticeably greater wrist presence. Furthermore, the advanced construction for the 1940s — featuring a screw-down caseback and round pushers — provided improved water resistance, at a time when most watches were fitted with snap-on casebacks and rectangular pushers.

The undisputed highlight, however, is the dial. At first glance, it captivates with its exceptional aesthetics; upon closer inspection, with its rarity. Owing to its striking black-and-white contrast, this dial configuration is commonly referred to by collectors as the “Oreo Dial.” The black ring with luminous Arabic numerals is framed by a telemeter scale, while the inner section features a finely executed snail tachymeter scale. This so-called two-tone execution ranks among the rarest and most sought-after dial variants of the 1940s and 1950s. Particularly striking is the red chronograph seconds hand, which adds further visual tension and character to the dial.

Overall, this is an exceptionally rare 1940s chronograph with remarkable presence, outstanding vintage appeal and an excellent condition. Notably, this Doxa is among the 150 selected chronographs documented in the reference book FERO – 150 Steel Chronographs.

Condition Report
Dial: well-preserved dial with authentic patina – original radium luminous material on markers and hands – signed "Doxa Waterproof Incabloc Antimagnetique Swiss Made".

Case: 36 mm stainless steel case – honest wear consistent with age – intact bevels – deep engravings on the caseback: "Stainless Steel Waterproof Antimagnetic Incabloc Swiss Made" along with the serial number.

Movement: Manual-wind Landeron 48 – timegrapher results: +11 s/day, amplitude 308, beat error 0.0.

Serial number: 41xxx

Int.Exe.: 25225