Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is an elegant mid-century Wittnauer cocktail watch featuring a 10K rolled gold plate bezel with a durable stainless steel case back. The watch head is flanked by ornate leaf-motif end-pieces set with sparkling accent stones, fitted to a period flexible mesh bracelet with a safety chain.
Story
Founded in New York in 1885 by Swiss immigrant Albert Wittnauer, the company became famous for supplying navigational timepieces to aviators and explorers. By the 1950s, Wittnauer had merged into the legendary Longines family, crafting glamorous dress watches that brought Swiss luxury into everyday American life.
Maker / Origin
Albert Wittnauer arrived in America at age 16 and recognized a gap for high-quality Swiss watch movements cased for the American market. Wittnauer instruments accompanied Admiral Byrd to the North and South Poles and powered Neil Armstrong's flight instruments, securing its place in horological history.
Condition & Value
The watch case shows light wear consistent with age, with minor surface scratches on the stainless steel case back and minor tarnish around the stones. The dial remains remarkably legible. Working condition of the internal mechanical movement would affect value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.