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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Skeletonized wristwatch

Corum Romulus Skeletonized Wristwatch

Partially verified

This Corum Romulus, reference 255.901.56, is a skeletonized wristwatch produced in the 2000s. The watch is constructed with an 18K yellow gold two-body case that measures 32.5 mm in diameter and 4.5 mm in thickness. The case features both polished and brushed surfaces, a wide graduated bezel engraved with radial Roman numerals, and a case back secured by six screws. It is presented on a strap with an 18K yellow gold Corum buckle. The dial is skeletonized and features a gold chapter ring with a painted inscription. The movement is a hand-engraved gilt brass caliber measuring 9 1/4''' and contains 17 jewels, a straight-line lever escapement, and a monometallic balance with a shock absorber. The dial, case, and movement are signed by the maker. The watch is noted as being water-resistant.

Corum Romulus skeletonized wristwatch showing the engraved bezel and exposed movement.
Corum Romulus skeletonized wristwatch showing the engraved bezel and exposed movement. — Antiquorum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
catalog.antiquorum.swiss
Category
Wristwatch · Skeletonized wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Corum
Reference
255.901.56
Catalogue / lot identifier
153
Source-reported date
2000s
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
557138

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

Case and Dial Construction

The watch features a two-body case crafted from 18K yellow gold, exhibiting a combination of polished and brushed finishing. The bezel is notably wide, featuring graduated radial Roman numerals engraved directly into the gold surface. The case back is secured by six screws, and the piece is fitted with a sapphire crystal. The overall diameter of the case is 32.5 mm, with a thin profile of 4.5 mm.

The skeletonized dial is designed to reveal the underlying mechanics of the watch. It includes a gold chapter ring which serves as the mounting for the hour markers and displays a painted inscription reading 'Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecit'. The time is displayed via black painted gold baton hands. The watch is accompanied by an 18K yellow gold Corum buckle.

Evidence for this section
  • “Two-body, polished and brushed, case back with 6 screws, wide graduated bezel engraved with radial Roman numerals, sapphire crystal.”
  • “Skeletonized, gold chapter ring with ?Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecitpainted?.”

Movement Specifications

The timepiece is powered by a 9 1/4''' caliber, which is characterized by its gilt brass construction and extensive hand-engraving throughout the plates. The movement is specified as having 17 jewels and employs a traditional straight-line lever escapement. It is equipped with a monometallic balance and a shock absorber system for the balance staff. The watch also utilizes a self-compensating flat balance spring to regulate the timekeeping function.

The movement, as well as the dial and case, are signed by the maker.

Evidence for this section
  • “Cal. 9 1/4''', gilt brass and hand-engraved, 17 jewels, straight-line lever escapement, monometallic balance, shock absorber, self-compensating fl at balance spring.”
  • “Dial, case and movement signed.”

Condition and Attribution

The auction description provides a grading for the watch, assigning a general grade of AA. The case is described as being in 'Good' condition but with noted scratches. The dial is classified as being in original condition.

The object is attributed as being manufactured in the 2000s. The serial number for the case is recorded as 557138, and the limited production status is identified by the number XLVI. The provenance and historical context are limited to these specifications provided by the auction house.

Evidence for this section
  • “Grading System Grade: AA Very good”
  • “Case: 3-9 Good Scratched”
  • “Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific production date for the individual piece numbered XLVI?
  • What is the full context of the 'Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecit' inscription regarding the limited edition production run?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Corum Romulus Skeletonized Wristwatch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerCorum“Corum, "Romulus',' Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecit'”
ModelRomulus“Corum, "Romulus',' Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecit'”
Reference255.901.56“Ref. 255.901.56”
Case Number557138“case No. 557138”
Date2000s“Made in the 2000s.”
MovementCaliber 9 1/4'''“Cal. 9 1/4'''”
Jewels17“17 jewels”
Case dimensions32.5 mm diameter, 4.5 mm thickness“Diam. 32.5 mm. Thickness 4.5 mm.”
ConditionCase scratched“Case: 3-9 Good Scratched”
ConditionOverhaul recommended“Movement: 2* Very good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense”

Visible details

  • Wide bezel features engraved radial Roman numerals
  • Visible hand-engraving on the movement plates
  • Skeletonized movement construction allows for partial transparency through the dial

Research qualifications

  • Condition report indicates scratches to the case
  • Auction house recommends an overhaul for the movement

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

Consulted source

CORUM ROMULUS REF. 255.901.56 SKELETONIZED Corum, "Romulus',' Invenit Et Solum Centiena Exemplaria Fecit', No. XLVI, case No. 557138, Ref. 255.901.56. Made in the 2000s. Fine and elegant, thin, water-resistant, skeletonized 18K yellow gold wristwatch with 18K yellow gold Corum buckle.

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 85d32285da

Terms in this record

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