1960s Dodane Type 21 tropical with Valjoux 231

Following the Type 20, the Type 21 chronographs were produced by a handful of brands from the 60s, upon order by the French airforce and based on precise specifications. These chronographs had to feature a black dial with arabic luminous numerals, a 38mm size and a flyback movement.

The selected brands were Breguet, Auricoste, Vixa, Airain and Dodane, which produced approximately 5000 of these chronographs, mostly based on a Valjoux 222 movement, the flyback version of the Valjoux 22. Dodane produced also a few pieces based on a Valjoux 231, derived from the Valjoux 23, in very small numbers (less than 200). Some of them surface sometimes, with either a 231 or 23 engraving on the movement (23 here). These pieces are very rare and very difficult to find. Interestingly enough, this batch is famous for the beautiful tropical dials, which is obviously the case here.

Details

BrandDodane
ModelType 21
YearCirca 1965
Case materialStainless steel
MovementManual, 231
Diameter38mm

Condition

Overall condition is excellent. The dial is flawless with superb patina and original tritium, as are the hands. The case shows very little wear and remains sharp. The movement was serviced, as usual and is covered by our 1 year mechanical guarantee.