Preliminary identification

Favre-Leuba Genève Quartz Dress Watch, c. 1980s

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A classic Swiss-made quartz dress watch featuring an elegant oval-shaped case and a distinctive textured 'linen' or 'tapestry' dial. This piece represents the era when traditional Swiss houses adapted to the Quartz Revolution with ultra-slim, sophisticated designs.

Story

Founded in 1737, Favre-Leuba is the world's second-oldest watch brand. This 1980s survivor showcases the brand's resilience during the 'Quartz Crisis,' blending centuries of prestige with then-cutting-edge technology.

Maker / Origin

The Favre family began watchmaking in Le Locle in 1737, eventually becoming a powerhouse of innovation known for the first altimeter wristwatch. While many brands perished in the 1970s, Favre-Leuba maintained its reputation for distinct case shapes and high-quality finishing.

Condition & Value

The watch shows visible wear to the gold plating on the lugs and bezel. There appears to be a significant chip or residue on the left side of the crystal/dial edge. Condition is fair, which significantly limits the top-end value. Value is driven by the brand's heritage, but tempered by the quartz movement and current condition.

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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
$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.