Vintage Herodia Ancre 17 Rubis Swiss Made Gold Plated Mechanical Watch 35mm Rare
Vintage Herodia Ancre 17 Rubis Swiss Made Gold Plated Mechanical Watch 35mm Rare. Vintage Herodia Ancre 17 Rubis Swiss Made Gold Plated Mechanical Wristwatch - Rare Mid-Century Treasure Awaits Its Next Guardian! Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands-a timepiece that has whispered the secrets of decades past, ticking through the triumphs and trials of its original owner. This is no ordinary watch; it's a Herodia Ancre 17 Rubis, a Swiss-made marvel from the golden era of watchmaking, circa 1940s-1950s, when craftsmanship was an art form and every gear told a story of precision and passion. As the world races forward into digital anonymity, items like this are vanishing, their rarity skyrocketing with each passing year.
Collectors know: these obscure Swiss brands like Herodia are the hidden gems, undervalued today but destined to become the crown jewels of tomorrow's auctions. Don't let this opportunity slip away-own a slice of horological heritage that evokes nostalgia, elegance, and the irreplaceable charm of a bygone age. Crafted in the heart of Switzerland, the birthplace of timeless watchmaking, this Herodia embodies the meticulous standards that made Swiss watches synonymous with excellence. The dial proudly bears "Herodia Ancre 17 Rubis Swiss Made, " where "Ancre" signifies the lever escapement-a hallmark of reliable mechanical movement-and "17 Rubis" denotes the 17 jewels that reduce friction for smoother, longer-lasting performance.
The sub-seconds dial at the 6 o'clock position adds a touch of classic sophistication, reminiscent of the dress watches worn by gentlemen during post-war prosperity. The gold-plated case gleams with a warm, vintage patina, measuring approximately 35mm in diameter (excluding crown), perfect for modern wrists seeking understated luxury without the bulk of contemporary designs.
Lugs extend gracefully, accommodating the included black leather strap, though aged and ready for your personal touch-perhaps a restoration to match its storied past. Turn it over, and the stainless steel back ("Fond Acier Inoxydable") reveals its durable construction, etched with the serial number 256777, a unique identifier that traces its lineage back to the workshops of La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. Herodia, produced by Montres Herodia SA, was a boutique brand that focused on quality over quantity, often using reliable ébauches from suppliers like FHF or A. This watch's manual-wind movement is a testament to that era's engineering prowess, where each wind of the crown connected you directly to the intricate dance of gears and springs inside.
While the watch is presented as-is and may benefit from a professional service to ensure optimal running (it's currently not winding or ticking in photos, typical for vintage pieces stored away), its potential is immense-imagine reviving it to hear that satisfying mechanical heartbeat once more. What makes this Herodia truly special is its escalating rarity. In an age where mass-produced quartz watches dominate, authentic mechanical Swiss timepieces from lesser-known brands like Herodia are becoming extinct. Major houses like Rolex or Omega overshadow them, but savvy collectors are turning to these under-the-radar treasures for their unique stories and investment potential. With fewer surviving each year due to neglect or loss, this watch isn't just an accessory; it's a emotional anchor to history, evoking memories of a grandfather's steady hand or a father's cherished heirloom.
Feel the weight of its gold-plated case against your skin, the subtle tick that reminds you time is precious, and the pride of preserving something irreplaceable. Condition-wise, this Herodia wears its age with dignity. The cream-colored dial shows honest patina-faint scratches and fading on the Arabic numerals add character, not detriment, telling of years of faithful service. The gold plating on the case exhibits minor wear at the edges, a badge of authenticity that collectors adore. Crystal is clear with light surface marks, and the hands move freely when manipulated, hinting at life within. The black leather strap is original but cracked and frayed, ideal for replacement to suit your style-perhaps a supple calfskin to enhance its vintage appeal. Overall, it's in fair vintage condition, ready for display, wear, or gentle restoration. No box or papers accompany it, as is common for these era pieces, but its intrinsic value shines through.As you consider this watch, picture it on your wrist during a quiet evening, or passed down to a loved one as a family relic. In a world of disposable gadgets, this Herodia stands as a beacon of enduring quality, a reminder that true beauty comes from craftsmanship that withstands time. The brand's obscurity only adds to its allure; it's not for the masses, but for those who appreciate the poetry in mechanics, the romance in rarity. This listing includes the watch as shown in the detailed photos-please review them closely, as they form part of the description. Time waits for no one, but this Herodia can capture it forever.
_gsrx_vers_1730 GS 9.9.4 (1730).