ABOUT THIS WATCH

Despite having the distinction as the oldest watch and clockmaking house 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.

Two of the most popular models sought after by collectors are the two register Multichron 30 of the 1940's, which was advertised as the worlds first waterproof chronograph in a clamshell case, as well as the three register MultiChron 12 of the 1950’s til the 70’s, most famously worn by legendary auto racer Jim Clark. What is highly unique about this particular watch we have here is that it looks like your standard two register MultiChron 30 in a clamshell but having the additional 12hr recording function makes it a Multichron 12, using a Venus 152 movement (which is essentially an updated Venus 150). As far as it’s rarity, this is the only Multichron 12 in a clamshell case I’ve ever seen.

Gallet was known for making a few one-offs and bespoke orders and this gorgeous piece is one such example that was personally owned by Bernard Gallet himself for most of his life until he gifted it to Gallet’s Content Curator who several years later had it serviced by Gallet and sold it at auction.* Watch collectors like to talk about a lot about provenance when it comes to rare vintage pieces and this one checks pretty much every box. Historically significant brand? Check. One of a kind? Check. Owned by an important person? Also check.

Let’s forget about all that for a second though and simply admire it’s fabulous design and amazing condition. This watch is incredible, and my amateur photography skills and iPhone camera simply can’t do it any real justice. My favorite thing about Gallet Clamshells in general are the perfect proportions of the dial design and case, but the most fascinating thing about this one is the extra 12hr register on this wonderful and subtle two-toned dial. The cherry on top are the blue hands which I am an absolute sucker for.

As mentioned, this watch was most recently serviced by Gallet a couple years ago in which it was given a complete overhaul including replacement of the crystal and crown with New Old Stock parts. It is running great, and ready to begin the next chapter of its life with a new owner.

*Thanks to David Racine Laurence (COO) of Gallet for corroborating this provenance.

WATCH SPECS

Brand: Gallet 
Model: MultiChron 12
Reference: N/A 
Year: 1940s 
Material: Stainless steel  
Dimensions: 34mm diameter, 12mm thickness
Crystal: Acrylic
Lume: None 
Caliber: Venus 152 manual winding movement
Bracelet/Strap: Veal Beige Leather Strap
Lug Width: 18mm 
Box/Papers: No