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Distinctive vintage Waltham 17-jewel men’s mechanical wristwatch, manufactured in France and dating approximately from the 1960s or early 1970s.Unlike the more frequently encountered Swiss-made Waltham watches from this period, this example is signed “FRANCE” at the bottom of the dial. Its French manufacture reflects an interesting chapter in Waltham’s history, when the celebrated American name appeared on watches produced with European movements following the end of the company’s original American watch production.The watch has an especially attractive silver-tone dial with raised Arabic numerals, luminous-style hour and minute hands, and a distinctive open-arrow center seconds hand. The dial is signed “WALTHAM,” “17 JEWELS,” and “FRANCE.”The case back bears the Waltham name and is marked:ANTIMAGNETIC
SHOCK RESISTANT
WATERPROOF
CHROME PLATED TOP
ST. STEEL BACKThe watch is powered by a traditional hand-wound mechanical movement. It winds properly and is currently running well. It has not been tested over an extended period for accuracy or power reserve and has no known recent service history. The case has not been opened, so the exact movement caliber has not been confirmed.The watch is fitted with an attractive replacement 18 mm genuine-leather strap made by a boutique strap manufacturer in Bologna, Italy. The dark brown leather and contrasting stitching complement the watch beautifully. The watch sits seamlessly and comfortably on the wrist and remains an exceptionally wearable vintage piece.Cosmetically, the watch shows honest age-related wear, including surface scratches and some wear to the chrome plating, particularly around the lugs and case edges. The crystal has scratches and scuffs, while the dial and luminous material display attractive vintage patina. Please examine all photographs carefully for the exact condition.Although the case back was originally marked “Waterproof,” no vintage watch should be considered water-resistant unless it has been professionally pressure-tested. Exposure to water is not recommended.A particularly appealing and wearable vintage Waltham, distinguished by its French manufacture, handsome mid-century styling, unusual arrow-tipped seconds hand, and quality Italian leather strap.Watch and strap only. Display cushion is not included.
