1960s Lemania monopusher chronograph made for the Royal Navy

Lemania is a name that should be familiar to collectors of vintage watches, if not for watches released under its own signature, but for its contributions to other brands. Founded in 1884 by the self-taught watchmaker Alfred Lugrin, the factory has long been known for lunching some of the best movements ever made.

This Lemania chronograph is the quintessence of the pilot watch. Produced during a little more than 20 years, from the 50s to the early 70s, in low quantities, it features a monopusher mechanism based on the Lemania 2220 movement. Its black dial and large tritium hands make it very readable and the thick asymetrical case adds a touch of coolness to the overall.

The dial displays the broad arrow sign, used to indicate the property of the British Army, and the T sign, indicating the presence of tritium on the dial and hands. Usually made for the Royal Air Force, this one is part of the Royal Navy dotation, which makes it a rarer and more collectible piece.