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HomeWatchesChurchill's secret watch resurfaces: discover the jewel that made history!

Churchill's secret watch resurfaces: discover the jewel that made history!

An exceptional timepiece has reappeared on the collectorโ€™s watch market. Winston Churchillโ€™s Movado Calendograf, a symbol of post-war gratitude, is now up for sale. This timepiece, steeped in history, promises to thrill watch enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

A watch with a unique historical pedigree

Winston Churchillโ€™s Movado Calendograf is no ordinary watch. Given to him in 1946 by โ€œthe Swiss people,โ€ it embodies the British leaderโ€™s appreciation for his role during World War II.

This rare piece, referenced 4820, was part of Steve Forbesโ€™ private collection for 30 years, adding another layer to its impressive pedigree. Now offered for sale by Peter Harrington Rare Books for โ‚ฌ175,000, it represents much more than just a timepiece.

Technical characteristics worthy of the greatest watchmaking houses

Far from the minimalist image associated with Movado today, this Calendograf demonstrates the technical know-how of the brand in the 1940s:

โ€“ 18K yellow gold caseโ€“ Two-tone silver/beige dialโ€“ Movado 475 SC hand-wound mechanical movementโ€“ Triple calendar function (day, date, month)โ€“ Central secondsโ€“ Frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour

These specifications place the watch on a par with the most prestigious creations of the golden age of Swiss watchmaking, rivaling models from Rolex, Patek Philippe or Audemars Piguet.

An iconic design from the 1940s

The aesthetics of the Movado Calendograf perfectly embody the post-war watchmaking style:

โ€“ Cow-horn lugsโ€“ Stepped case typical of the periodโ€“ Patinated dial testifying to its authenticityโ€“ Personalized engraving on the back of the case

These design elements contribute to making this watch a true witness of its time, beyond its historical importance.

An exceptional provenance which justifies its price

The asking price of 175,000 euros for this Movado may seem high, but it is amply justified by the unique history of the watch:

โ€“ Presented to Winston Churchill himselfโ€“ Symbol of Swiss gratitude to the Alliesโ€“ Owned by Steve Forbes for 30 yearsโ€“ Accompanied by a letter of authenticity

This exceptional provenance places the Churchill Calendograf in a category of its own on the vintage watch market.

A testimony to post-war European history

The watch was given to Churchill on the eve of a major speech calling for a form of European union. This historical context adds an additional symbolic dimension to the object:

โ€“ Awarded during Churchillโ€™s last visit to Switzerlandโ€“ Linked to the โ€œEurope Must Riseโ€ speech in Zurichโ€“ Symbol of post-war Anglo-Swiss relations

These elements make the Movado Calendograf much more than just a watch: it embodies a pivotal moment in European history.

Experts' opinion: a priceless collector's item

Watch market specialists agree that this Movado Calendograf represents a unique opportunity for collectors:

โ€“ Major historical pieceโ€“ Remarkable state of conservationโ€“ Significant appreciation potential

Although the watch is currently not in working order, its value lies more in its status as a historical object than in its horological function.

The sale of Winston Churchillโ€™s Movado Calendograf represents an exceptional event in the world of collectible watches. This watch embodies the convergence of European political history and Swiss watchmaking expertise. Its journey from diplomatic gift to private collectorโ€™s item makes it a unique object full of meaning. For history and watchmaking enthusiasts, this Movado represents much more than just a watch: it is a true fragment of history that can be worn on the wrist. It remains to be seen who will be the lucky buyer of this horological treasure whose symbolic value far exceeds its listed price.

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