This Tissot Navigator reference 4002-50 from the 1950s is one of those remarkable finds where rarity, technical sophistication and an untouched NOS condition come together. A vintage world time watch that, in this combination, is truly without equal.
The dial is clearly structured yet intriguingly complex. The rotating city ring with 24 international destinations, combined with the gold 24-hour ring, allows all world times to be read simultaneously – a function that continues to reflect the fascination of global travel to this day. Despite the wealth of information, the dial remains exceptionally legible.
What truly sets this example apart, however, is its virtually unworn condition. The dial is flawless, while the case shows hardly any signs of wear and retains its original proportions with sharp edges and well-defined lines. The deep engraving of the serial number, along with the preserved caseback sticker, further underline the authenticity and outstanding state of preservation.
Inside, the watch is powered by the in-house manual-winding Tissot caliber 28.5-21 with central seconds. The operation of the world time function is both clever and refined: when setting the time, the city ring moves in sync, while pressing the pusher at two o’clock and then turning the crown allows the desired time zone to be adjusted independently.
On the wrist, this Tissot offers a warm, elegant presence with a distinctive character. The combination of technical refinement, aesthetic harmony and NOS condition makes it a truly exceptional vintage collector’s piece.
Condition report
Dial: flawless – perfectly preserved printing of the blue city ring – signed “Tissot Swiss Made”.
Case: 36 mm 18k yellow gold case in virtually unworn condition – unpolished – minor storage marks – sharp lugs – deep engraving 32/100 on the caseback.
Movement: manual-winding Tissot caliber 28.5-21 – running perfectly – timegrapher results: rate deviation: +32s/day, amplitude: 225, beat error: 0.5.
Serial number: 32/100
Int.Exe.: 36214