Gallet & Cie has been around for so long that archeologists have probably dug up a fossilized Gallet clock right next to a bunch of trilobites.
Ok, that’s slightly exaggerated, but when a watchmaker has been around since 1466, it’s fair to say they know a thing or two about horology!
Gallet is well known to hardcore vintage collectors, but they’ve flown under the radar amongst enthusiasts in general. Interestingly, the manufacture has long been on the forefront of horological innovation, and they’ve racked up a number of impressive wristwatch firsts, including the first waterproof chronograph wristwatch; the first wristwatch with a 28,800vph escapement; the first wristwatch with rotating bezel; and the first chronograph wristwatch with a 24-hour GMT complication. Considering how often we see these features in watches from nearly every significant brand today, one can’t overstate Gallet’s contributions to the industry.
Of the many watches produced by Gallet during the 20th century, the MultiChron chronographs are some of the most significant and collectible. Although they’re certainly refined and stylish, many were designed as tool watches for military and industrial professionals, featuring decimal, pulsometer and telemeter tracks on the dials.
The MultiChron 12H, so known for its third register and ability to record up to twelve hours, would likely have found use in aviation, motorsports, or military use, as their easily readable dials, printed Arabic numerals, and contrasting outer scales allow for quick and precise reading. The look of the entire watch, from its sharp steel lines and beveled edges to its barrel pushers and uncluttered dial, is simply breathtaking, and is absolutely one of our favorite expressions of 1950s chronographs. Internally, the MultiChron 12Hs were fitted with either hand-wound Valjoux 72 or Excelsior Park 40 movements, both of which are excellent chronograph calibres.
This particular example is fitted with an EP40 movement and features the rare and super desirable glossy black gilt dial configuration with base -1000 tachymeter scale made famous by motorsports legend Jim Clark. Housed in a remarkably preserved 37mm stainless steel case, this example has an incredibly crisp and glossy dial with evenly patinated luminous Arabic indices, a professionally color-matched 'syringe' handset, and has been treated to a recent mechanical overhaul, during which it was fitted with a replacement acrylic crystal and gasket set.
Paired to a handsome, taupe-colored leather strap, this excellent example of a beloved vintage Gallet chronograph is poised to bring its next owner years of joyous use!
