Wakmann Watch Co Venus Cal.178 Chronograph Made in France 37mm Chrome

Name: Wakmann Watch Co Venus Cal.178 Chronograph Made in France 37mm Chrome
Brand: BREITLING
Price: 420000 JPY
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (1 reviews)

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￥420,000

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Basic Information

Brand

BREITLING

Model

OTHER

Reference Number

Case Material

Chrome painted Case

Year Of Manufacture

1950

Dial Condition

Aged Patina Due to Vintage Condition

Case Condition (Including Case Back)

Pre-owned (Noticeable scratches on case)

Accuracy

Mechanical (±30 seconds/day)

Gender

Male

Location

Japan

Movement

Winding Up

Automatic

Caliber

Power reserve

Case

Case Material

Chrome painted Case

Glass

PLASTIC

Size (excluding crown)

Dial

BLACK

Belt

Belt Material

Stainless Steel

Explanation

See translation

I acquired a remarkable postcard dating from 1945, shortly after the end of the Second World War. It was sent from France by Mr. Wakmann to Willy Breitling, then CEO of Breitling, and contained a message concerning the establishment of a new factory in France.

MADE IN FRANCE

The word “FRANCE,” occasionally engraved on Wakmann movements and cases, bears witness to this chapter of history. As suggested by the postcard, these watches were produced at the newly established factory in France and subsequently exported to the United States.

Under American import regulations, the movements were required to carry an import code. Thus we find the code “WOG,” shared by Breitling and Wakmann, engraved upon them.

In 1942, Wakmann served as an authorized distributor for Swiss watch brands in Portugal. In 1946, he established the Wakmann Watch Company in New York, opening an office as the general distributor for Breitling. It would not be an exaggeration to say that this laid the foundation for what would become BREITLING USA — BREITLING WATCH CO. OF U.S. — in 1947.

The origins of this enterprise must also be viewed against the extraordinary circumstances of the Second World War. Wakmann is remembered for his efforts against Nazi persecution and for helping protect those who were being oppressed. Against this historical background, the establishment of a factory in France was more than simply a business decision; it can also be seen as an expression of Wakmann’s character and convictions.

Having lived through an extraordinary era and devoted part of his life to helping others during the Second World War, Wakmann ultimately became deeply immersed in the world of watches. Perhaps horology became the final destination of his remarkable journey.

The present watch seems almost to embody that legacy.

CALIBER 178 CHRONOGRAPH

Wakmann watches are often encountered with more economical Landeron chronograph movements, perhaps reflecting the company’s particular relationship with Breitling. This example, however, tells an entirely different story.

At the heart of this watch lies the legendary Caliber 178.

Breitling’s version of the Cal. 178, particularly as used in the Navitimer, incorporated certain Breitling-specific details, including its bridge configuration. Components susceptible to wear, such as parts associated with the coupling system, received additional finishing, while the operating pivot of the reset hammer could incorporate a chaton-mounted jewel.

Nevertheless, finding a Cal. 178 in a watch bearing the Wakmann name alone is exceptionally uncommon.

Even more fascinating is what is engraved upon the movement.

Beside the American import code “WOG,” the word “FRANCE” is deeply and unmistakably stamped, providing striking evidence of its French manufacture and its intended export to the American market.

The face of the watch possesses an aura every bit as compelling as the Caliber 178 beating within it.

Its beautifully aged black dial is surrounded by Roman hour numerals filled with radium luminous material, creating the unmistakable presence of a true vintage military chronograph.

And, exactly as its history would suggest, the country of origin printed at six o’clock is:

“FRANCE”

The dial also carries the name “INCABLOC,” referring to its Incabloc shock-protection system — another highly practical feature perfectly suited to the military character of the watch.

With its period-correct components, naturally aged luminous material, deeply faded black dial and powerful three-register chronograph layout, the entire watch radiates an extraordinary vintage presence.

It does not merely look old.

It carries the unmistakable atmosphere of the era from which it came.