Preliminary identification

Vintage Jules Jürgensen 17-Jewel Automatic Wristwatch, c. 1970s

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic 1970s Swiss-made mechanical wristwatch by historic horologist Jules Jürgensen, featuring a cushion-tonneau stainless steel case, sunburst silver dial, applied block indices, and a magnified date window. Powered by a 17-jewel automatic movement, it represents the transitional era of mid-century Swiss mechanical watchmaking.

Story

Founded in Denmark in 1740, Jules Jürgensen was one of the world's oldest watchmakers. By the 1970s, this angular steel case brought royal Danish horology straight into modern everyday style.

Maker / Origin

Founded in Copenhagen by Jürgen Jürgensen in 1740 and later expanded to Le Locle, Switzerland by his son Jules, the brand built a legendary reputation crafting royal pocket watches and chronometers. In the mid-20th century, the company transitioned ownership to the US market, housing robust Swiss movements in stylish, contemporary cases.

Condition & Value

Fair to good vintage condition. Shows surface scratches and scuffs across the acrylic crystal, bezel, and clasp, along with minor patina/dirt around the dial perimeter. Running condition and internal caliber health are unverified, which tempers the top-end value.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
  • ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.