OVERVIEW

Despite having the distinction as being part of one of the oldest watchmaking families in history, Gallet may not be as well-known to the average watch enthusiast as Breguet, Vacheron Constantin or Audemars Piguet, but to longtime vintage watch collectors they are one of the most venerated brands of the 20th century. Gallet is best recognized for their line of MultiChron chronograph watches, made specifically for several different professional applications such as aviation, military, & auto racing. These are the epitome of tool watches, while still being recognized as some of the most beautifully designed watches of their time.

The most famous of these watches is Gallet’s MultiChron 12 chronograph which was produced from the 1950s until the 1970s and was assembled in several configurations; different dial colors and textures, different case shapes depending on the manufacturer, and two different movements over time. Later versions were made using a Valjoux 72 (same movement as early Rolex Daytonas, Heuer Carreras & others), but the early ones with the Excelsior Park 40 movement is the one to try to get your hands on. Of the most iconic manual-wind chronograph movements, the EP40 is the smoothest and most satisfying chronograph movements ever made and I wish more brands had opted to use it.

While all versions of the Gallet MultiChron 12 have their charms and are collectible for different reasons, this example with the caliber EP40 and exceptional glossy gilt dial is the greatest version of the MultiChron 12 you can get, especially if you can find one is this condition.

CONDITION NOTES

CASE: Excellent condition with sharp edges and never polished. Very light wear considering how old it is.

DIAL & HANDS: Near perfect glossy gilt dial with very few light marks that are visible at limited angles. Original untouched lume. Hands are mint with matching original lume.

MOVEMENT: Keeping great time with all functions working smoothly. The EP40 movement is one of the most satisfying chronograph movements I’ve ever handled.