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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Open-face pocket watch

Chronomètre HIRT 18k gold open-face pocket watch

Partially verified

According to the seller, this open-face pocket watch was produced in Switzerland circa 1920. Housed in a solid 18-karat gold case measuring 48 mm in diameter, the watch features an engraved silver-tone dial with a central vegetal motif, stylized Arabic numerals, black Breguet-style hands, and a subsidiary seconds counter at six o'clock. The dial is signed 'Chronometre HIRT' below twelve o'clock. The seller reports that the gold reverse is engraved with stripes, foliage, and a shield bearing the monogram 'PR', while the case interior bears 18K hallmarks and serial number 2291733.

Dial view of the Chronomètre HIRT open-face pocket watch in 18k gold
Dial view of the Chronomètre HIRT open-face pocket watch in 18k gold — IberAntiques / Proantic. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.proantic.com
Category
Pocket watch · Open-face pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Chronomètre HIRT
Reference
1551874
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1920
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
2291733

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Physical Specifications

The timepiece is an open-face pocket watch produced in Switzerland, with a reported period of origin circa 1920. The watch features a case crafted in 18-karat gold.

Measurements for the watch are reported as 48 mm in diameter with a total weight of 50 grams.

Evidence for this section
  • “Crafted in solid 18-karat gold (18K)”
  • “Measurements: 48 mm (1.89 in)”
  • “Weight: 50 g.”
  • “made in Switzerland around 1920”

Dial and Exterior Details

The dial is described as a silver tone featuring a central vegetal engraving and a satin-like texture. It includes stylized Arabic numerals, an outer minute track, and black Breguet-style hands. The inscription 'Chronometre HIRT' is present below the twelve o'clock position, with a subsidiary seconds subdial at six o'clock.

The reverse cover features a pattern of vertical stripes, wavy lines, and a vegetal motif. A central shield is engraved with the initials 'PR'.

Evidence for this section
  • “The dial, in a sober silver tone, also features a central vegetal engraving with a satin-like texture, surrounded by Arabic numerals and elegant black Breguet-style hands.”
  • “At twelve o'clock, the inscription “Chronometre HIRT” appears”
  • “At six o'clock, a small seconds subdial completes the design”
  • “Its surface is decorated with a delicate pattern of vertical stripes, interspersed with fine wavy lines and surrounded by a beautiful Art Nouveau-style vegetal motif.”
  • “topping a central shield engraved with the initials “PR””

Internal Markings

The inside of the back cover contains 18K hallmarks, a manufacturer’s mark, and the serial number 2291733, located on a background described as hand-polished concentric circles.

The movement is identified by the seller as a manual-wind type. The physical condition of the movement and internal components is stated by the seller.

Evidence for this section
  • “The inside of the back cover reveals the hallmarks: the 18K stamp, the manufacturer’s mark, and the serial number 2291733, all engraved on a background of hand-polished concentric circles.”
  • “The manual-wind movement, visible when the cover is opened, is in excellent condition”

Open research questions

  • What specific horological caliber is contained within case serial number 2291733?
  • Do the 18K hallmarks correspond to specific Swiss assay office marks for the 1920 era?
  • Is there verified historical documentation for the HIRT brand beyond the seller's description?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Chronomètre HIRT 18k gold open-face pocket watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Case material18-karat gold“Crafted in solid 18-karat gold (18K)”
Serial number2291733“serial number 2291733”
Diameter48 mm“Measurements: 48 mm (1.89 in)”
Total weight50 g“Weight: 50 g.”
Dial inscriptionChronometre HIRT“the inscription “Chronometre HIRT” appears”

Visible details

  • Open-face yellow gold case with relief engraving around the bezel, pendant, and bow
  • Silver-tone dial with central gilded foliate decoration
  • Stylized black Arabic numerals with an outer railway minute track
  • Blued or blackened Breguet-style open-tipped hands
  • Subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock with Arabic numerals

Research qualifications

  • Movement condition, internal case back hallmarks, and rear engraving are source-reported and not shown in the primary photograph
  • The monogram PR is interpreted by the seller as likely belonging to the original owner

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Proantic: Antique 18k Gold Pocket Watch. Switzerland, Circa 1920

Reviewed 2026-10-22 · Record 40178e4833

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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