Skip to content
The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Single-button chronograph wristwatch

Lemania Royal Australian Navy single button chronograph, ref. 35-64

Partially verified

This Lemania chronograph wristwatch was produced for the Royal Australian Navy circa 1964. It is designed with a 40mm stainless steel case featuring an asymmetric tonneau form and a single chronograph pusher situated at the 2 o'clock position. The movement is a 17-jewel Calibre 2220 manual wind mechanism utilizing a column wheel chronograph system. The black dial displays white Arabic numerals at 12 and 6, complemented by luminous markers and the Broad Arrow and Tritium 'T' symbols. Two subsidiary dials at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions facilitate constant seconds and a 30-minute recording function respectively. The time is indicated by pointed baton hands fitted with luminous inserts alongside a central chronograph hand. The watch is attached to an associated black fabric strap and features military engravings on the screw-down case back.

Lemania Royal Australian Navy single button chronograph wristwatch, c. 1964.
Lemania Royal Australian Navy single button chronograph wristwatch, c. 1964. — Bonhams. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Wristwatch · Single-button chronograph wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Lemania
Reference
35-64
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
c. 1964
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
1574828

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

The watch is housed in a 40mm stainless steel case characterized by an asymmetric tonneau form. Access to the chronograph function is managed via a single pusher located at the 2 o'clock position, with the main crown positioned at the 3 o'clock side. The screw-down case back is engraved with the military identification markings 'H.S.9 ↑ R.A.N 406', which indicate its issuance to the Royal Australian Navy.

The black dial features white Arabic numerals at the 12 and 6 positions, accompanied by luminous dots. The display incorporates the Broad Arrow symbol and the Tritium 'T' marking. Subsidiary dials located at the 3 and 9 o'clock positions serve to track constant seconds and a 30-minute recording interval. The hands are fashioned in a pointed baton style with luminous inserts, complemented by a center-mounted chronograph hand.

Evidence for this section
  • “40mm stainless steel case with an asymmetric tonneau form”
  • “single chronograph button positioned at 2 o'clock”
  • “engraved with military markings 'H.S.9 ↑ R.A.N 406'”
  • “black dial displays white Arabic numerals with luminous markers at 12 and 6, alongside luminous dots”

Movement

The internal mechanism of this timepiece is the Lemania Calibre 2220. This manual-wind movement is specified as having 17 jewels and is identified by the serial number 1574828.

The movement employs a column wheel system for the operation of the chronograph complication. This technical arrangement controls the engagement and disengagement of the chronograph recording functions through the single pusher on the case flank.

Evidence for this section
  • “powered by a 17-jewel Calibre 2220 manual wind movement”
  • “column wheel chronograph mechanism”
  • “numbered 1574828”

Associated Components

The watch is currently presented on an associated black fabric strap equipped with a steel buckle. This strap is not identified as part of the original military specification but acts as the current mounting for the timepiece.

The watch is designed as a functional tool, with its visual layout prioritizing high-contrast legibility for naval use, as evidenced by the white divisions on the dark dial surface.

Evidence for this section
  • “presented on an associated black fabric strap with a steel buckle”
  • “specialized tool watch produced for naval service”
  • “characterized by its durable design and high-contrast, functional dial layout”

Open research questions

  • What specific archival records confirm the issuance of this movement serial to the Royal Australian Navy?
  • Are there variations in the engraving depth or style across other known examples of the 35-64 reference issued to the R.A.N.?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Lemania Royal Australian Navy single button chronograph, ref. 35-64
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerLemania“Lemania”
Reference35-64“reference 35-64”
Datec. 1964“c. 1964”
Movement17-jewel Calibre 2220“17-jewel Calibre 2220 manual wind movement”
Movement Serial1574828“numbered 1574828”
Case Diameter40mm“40mm stainless steel case”
Case Back MarkingsH.S.9 ↑ R.A.N 406“engraved with military markings 'H.S.9 ↑ R.A.N 406'”

Visible details

  • Asymmetric tonneau case geometry
  • Single chronograph button at 2 o'clock
  • Broad Arrow and T markings on dial
  • Sub-dials positioned at 3 and 9 o'clock

Research qualifications

  • The exact military service history is reliant on the case back markings
  • The fabric strap is described as associated rather than original equipment

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

Terms in this record

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