Wittnauer Square Dress Watch | Manual Wind | Sub-Seconds | Christmas 1958 | Pre-Owned

Wittnauer Square Dress Watch | Manual Wind | Sub-Seconds | Circa 1958

There is something quietly compelling about a watch that has been someone’s Christmas gift. The caseback of this Wittnauer reads “Lou Bonvicin / Love Lee / 12-25-58” — a moment from Christmas morning, 1958, frozen in steel. Wittnauer, the American-marketed arm of Longines, produced Swiss-movement dress watches that punched well above their price point: precise, elegant, and built to last decades. This one has proven it.

The square case has aged well, its beveled and faceted edges still crisp. The silver dial is crisp and uncluttered — applied baton hour markers, slender sword hands, and a sub-seconds register at 6 o’clock in the best mid-century dress tradition. The manual-wind movement means no battery changes, ever — just a few turns of the crown each morning.

Specifications

• Reference: Unknown (no visible reference on dial or caseback)
• Movement: Swiss manual wind, 17-jewel (caliber unconfirmed — caseback not opened)
• Case: Square chrome-plated, beveled faceted corners; approx. 30–32mm wide (measure before listing — see action items)
• Dial: Silver/white with applied polished baton hour markers; sub-seconds register at 6 o’clock; printed Wittnauer “W” logo and wordmark
• Bezel: Integrated square chrome, smooth
• Bracelet/Strap: Aftermarket burgundy leather with contrasting red stitching; not original
• Crystal: Acrylic (hesalite); shows scratches and light haze — can be polished or replaced
• Water Resistance: None rated — vintage dress watch; keep dry
• Origin: Swiss movement, American-market case (Wittnauer Watch Co.)

Condition

Good vintage condition overall. The case retains its shape and faceted geometry with expected light wear on high points. The dial shows minor age spotting consistent with 65+ years. The acrylic crystal is scratched and lightly hazed — polishable or inexpensively replaced by any watchmaker. The caseback carries a personal engraving dated Christmas 1958. Running status should be confirmed before purchase — please inquire. The burgundy leather strap is an aftermarket piece in good shape with light wear.

Includes

Watch only. No box or papers.