15th Jul, 2023 9:30 GMT/BST
Fine Jewellery, Watches & Silver
2147
Wempe: A Rare Giant Size Second World War Luftwaffe Aviator's Wristwatch, signed Wempe, Hamburg, B-Uhr, circa 1941, (calibre 31) manual wound gilt finished lever movement signed Wempe, bimetallic balance with blued overcoil hairspring, original finished black dial with luminous markers, blued steel luminous hands, large hacking centre seconds hand, nickel plated case with snap-on back numbered 1025, case band numbered FL 23883, inner case back with full details and matching number, onion shaped winding crown
55mm wide
The German Air Ministry recognised the need for an accurate observer's watch to navigate and assist crews on long range flying missions. The watches are known as B-Uhrs (Beobachtungsuhr or observer's watch). They were tested by the Deutsche Versuchsanstalt fur Luftfahrt DVL Institute. From 1941 they were classified with an FL number (for flight and control), the 23 stands for navigation, followed by the three digit DVL number. A well tested watch with a high quality movement, and arguably the most desirable WWII German aviator's watch on the market today.
Sold for £2,800
Estimated at £1,000 - £1,500
Case with surface scratches, nickel plating has rubbed off the case back and lugs, case back appears to have a faintly inscribed inscription which appears to be MK, some cut marks and chewing of the metal positioned next to number on the side of the case where people have tried to remove the case back and front with a knife, plexi glass with scratches and crazing marks, dial has the original finish with the luminous aged and has a good patina, movement with the hacking seconds working when placing the watch into handsetting mode, movement in going order.
We are happy to provide Condition Reports to Prospective Buyers, but would welcome your request as soon as possible, preferably at least 48 hours before the Day of Sale.
We cannot guarantee a reply to any requests made within 48 hours of the start of the auction. The absence of a condition report from a lot does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition.
A Condition Report is an honest expression of our opinion, not a statement of fact and is provided as a service to the Seller. All lots are available on public view ahead of an auction and we encourage people to see an item in person when possible.
Our Condition Reports are not prepared by professional conservators, restorers or engineers, and are prepared with the naked eye unless otherwise stated.
Works are not examined out of the frame, unless specifically stated. We accept no liability for the opinions expressed in any Condition Report.
Tennants Auctioneers do not cover damage to gilded wood or plaster picture frames, or to picture frame glass whilst the item is in our possession.
Auction: Fine Jewellery, Watches & Silver, 15th Jul, 2023
A Chalcedony, Sapphire and Diamond Flower Brooch by Suzanne Belperron, one of the most original and influential jewellery designers of the 20th century, is to be offered in the Fine Jewellery, Watches and Silver Sale. The brooch is the Property of a Lady, who was given it on her wedding day in 1952 by the Italian noblewoman Marchesa Maria Nunziate di Mignano. From the same vendor comes an Art Deco Diamond Bracelet, and amongst a host of other glittering jewels in the sale is a Diamond Cluster Ring featuring a fancy intense yellow cut-cornered rectangular diamond.
Fine vintage and luxury watches include a rare Rolex 'Single Red Line' Submariner, a 1982 Patek Philippe Caltrava, and a limited edition Breitling Bentley. The silver section of the sale is led by a remarkable 18 carat gold three-piece George VI Café au Lait Service made by E. Silver and Co. of Sheffield in 1947, and a fine pair of George II Provincial Silver Candlesticks, made in 1746 and 1747 by James Kirkup of Newcastle.
Viewing
Sunday 9 July to Friday 14 July 11am-4pm and morning of sale from 8am
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