Skip to content
The Encyclopedia of Horology

Clock · Travel clock

Movado Ermetophon Travel Clock

Partially verified

This Movado Ermetophon travel clock dates to the 1950s. The piece features a rectangular chassis crafted from stainless steel, which is enclosed within a wrap of black alligator leather. The design incorporates a sliding case mechanism that protects the clock face and crowns when closed. The silvered dial is detailed with applied dart-style indices and an inner track for the alarm function. Timekeeping and alarm settings are managed via crowns positioned at the 12 o'clock side. The hands are of an alpha style, with a distinct red-tipped indicator serving the alarm. A small metal loop on the side of the leather casing provides a point for attachment to a chain or lanyard for transport. This example serves as the alarm-equipped variant of the Ermeto line, a series produced by Movado for decades. It is intended for portable use in pockets, bags, or as a desk accessory.

Front view of the Movado Ermetophon travel clock in its open position.
Front view of the Movado Ermetophon travel clock in its open position. — Analog:Shift. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
shop.analogshift.com
Category
Clock · Travel clock
Maker / attribution
Movado
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
1950s
Source-reported place
Not established

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 External Features

The clock is housed in a rectangular chassis constructed from stainless steel. This protective outer covering is finished in black alligator leather.

A small metal loop is integrated into the side of the leather wrap, designed to allow the clock to be secured to a lanyard or chain while traveling. Two crowns are positioned on the top edge of the clock movement; these are used for the dual functions of winding the movement and adjusting the internal alarm settings.

Evidence for this section
  • “rectangular case slides open to reveal the dial, winding crown, and alarm adjustment”
  • “stainless steel chassis wrapped in handsome black alligator leather”
  • “A small metal loop allows it to be attached to a lanyard or chain for travel.”

Dial and Hands

The silvered dial displays a series of applied dart indices, which mark the hours. A circular inner scale is printed on the dial to facilitate the use of the alarm function. The time is indicated by an alpha handset.

An additional hand, distinguished by its red-tipped indicator, functions as the alarm setting arm. The dial carries the Movado signature near the 12 o'clock position, the model name 'ermetophon' above the 6 o'clock position, and the designation 'SWITZERLAND T' at the base.

Evidence for this section
  • “Its silvered dial features applied dart indices, an inner alarm scale, and an elegant alpha handset with a red-tipped indicator”
  • “Movado Ermetophon Travel Clock”

Movement and Functionality

The device is powered by a hand-wound movement manufactured by Movado. The primary crown is responsible for winding the mainspring, while the secondary crown manages the alarm mechanism. The interface is designed for portability, allowing the user to wind and set the clock within its travel-friendly case.

The movement design and overall construction are described as being part of the Ermetophon series, which differentiates this model from standard non-alarm Ermeto travel clocks. The mechanism remains accessible once the sliding case is opened, allowing for rapid adjustment of the time and alarm during daily use.

Evidence for this section
  • “A hand-wound Movado movement powers the mechanism, set and wound from the 12 o’clock crown.”
  • “this isn’t a standard Ermeto—it’s the Ermetophon, the alarm-equipped variant.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber used in this Ermetophon model?
  • Was the alligator leather original to the manufacturer's production or a later addition?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Movado Ermetophon Travel Clock
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
ManufacturerMovado“Movado”
ModelErmetophon“this isn’t a standard Ermeto—it’s the Ermetophon”
MaterialsStainless steel and alligator leather“stainless steel chassis wrapped in handsome black alligator leather”
Era1950s“reflecting the refined industrial aesthetic of the 1950s”
MechanismHand-wound“A hand-wound Movado movement powers the mechanism”
DesignTravel clock“Movado Ermeto travel clock”
FeaturesAlarm“the alarm-equipped variant”

Visible details

  • Case features black alligator leather wrap
  • Two crowns located on top edge
  • Red-tipped indicator hand
  • Dial marked 'SWITZERLAND T'

Research qualifications

  • Exact year of production is unverified
  • Origin of leather is stated as alligator by the vendor but not independently authenticated

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.