Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces
Geneva, May 10, 2025
LOT 88
SEIKOSHA, JAPAN, "TENSOKU", NICKEL-PLATED METAL
CHF 3,000 - 5,000
HKD 28,500 - 47,500 / USD 3,700 - 6,200 / EUR 3,300 - 5,400TO BE SOLD WITHOUT RESERVE
A fine and rare, military, nickel-plated, manual wind pilot's wristwatch with revolving bezel
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AAA |
Excellent |
Case: 3-6-8 |
Good Slightly oxidized Slightly scratched |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 2-6-55-01 |
Very good Slightly oxidized Luminous material reapplied HANDS Original |
Brand Seikosha, Japan
Model "Tensoku"
Year circa 1940's
Movement No. 5
Case No. 6539/ 13113
Diameter 48
Caliber 19''', 9 jewels
Signature case and movement
Notes
Seikosha, “Tensoku”
This is the most famous Japanese military wristwatch of the Second World War. “Tensoku” is the abbreviation of “Tentai” and “Kansoku”, meaning “Astronomical Observation”.
For collectors of “militaria” this watch is the great rival of the large aviator’s watch “B-Urhen” made in Germany for the Luftwaffe and were mostly given to Kamikaze pilots explaining why so few watches have survived.
Very legible and with an oversized crown, this watch was an important tool for the pilots. Two variants were produced. One equipped with a 19’’’ (line) and 15 jewels movement and later versions such as this example with 9 jewels.