1940s Chronographe Suisse Cal. 1012 Grey Dial Chronograph
Reference: 1012
Movement: Venus 170 (17 Jewels)
Movement Type: Manual
Complications: Chronograph
Case Type: Chrome Plated Bezel & Steel Case w/ Stainless Snap Back
Case Size: 34mm
This Chronograph Suisse really stands out among its contemporaries with its unusual grey dial. I’m honestly not 100% sure about the provenance of this dial. It shows definite signs of age but is nonetheless in remarkably good condition. If it’s a re-dial, it’s extremely well-done. The movement is a tried and true Venus 170 with its column-wheel-driven top/bottom chronograph layout. I’ve serviced several 170s at this point, and they can be tricky to get operating properly. In particular they rely on tension from a number of rather simple and delicate wire springs that don’t age all that well, and the tip of the main operating level that engages with the column wheel is also subject to wear. With some tweaking however the column wheel mechanism operates smoothly and reliably.
*Please note that visible serial numbers on the case and movement have been partially or fully hidden with AI masking.