Preliminary identification

Cyma Art Deco Ladies' Cocktail Watch, c.1935

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A striking example of mid-century Swiss horology, this ladies' watch features a geometric 'stepped' case and a highly desirable sector dial.

Story

The 1930s marked a radical shift in how women wore time, moving away from hidden pocket watches to bold, visible 'cocktail' jewelry. This watch features a 'sector dial'—a design of radiating lines originally intended for scientific precision but adopted by the…

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1862 by the Schwob brothers, Cyma became a titan of Swiss watchmaking, eventually operating one of the most advanced factories in the world by the early 20th century.

Condition & Value

The watch shows significant honest wear, with heavy scratching on the crystal and 'flea bites' on the metal case. The dial has developed a heavy yellow patina and spotting (often called 'tropical' aging), which adds character but indicates moisture exposure in the past.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD