Description
Presenting a museum-grade 53mm silvered repoussé pocket watch awarded for bravery during the First Balkan War (c. 1912). Acquired directly from the family estate of the original recipient, Bulgarian Officer Captain Stephan Mavrodiev, this historic timepiece represents a tangible piece of European military history. The pristine enamel dial serves as a patriotic tribute to the Balkan League, featuring highly detailed polychrome portraits of the four allied monarchs who united against the Ottoman Empire.
Historical Context: The First Balkan War
The First Balkan War (October 1912 to May 1913) marked a pivotal shift in Eastern European borders. The Balkan League—comprising the kingdoms of Bulgaria, Serbia, Greece, and Montenegro—launched a coordinated military campaign against the Ottoman Empire. Despite being numerically and strategically disadvantaged, the allied armies achieved rapid and decisive victories. This watch commemorates that alliance, featuring the portraits of the four reigning kings:
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Ferdinand I, King of Bulgaria (1861 – 1948)
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Petar I Karadjordjevic, King of Serbia (1844 – 1921)
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Nikola I Petrovic, King of Montenegro (1840 – 1921)
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George I, King of Greece (1845 – 1913)
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Description |
| Era | Circa 1912 |
| Original Recipient | Captain Stephan Mavrodiev (Bulgarian Armed Forces) |
| Case Dimensions | 53mm diameter (excluding crown and bow) – Oversize |
| Case Material | Silvered Repoussé |
| Dial | White Enamel with Polychrome Royal Portraits |
| Movement | Mechanical manual-wind (Bridge signed “DEPOSE”) |
| Condition | Excellent; Perfect Working Order |
Design & Condition Details
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The Dial: The flawless white enamel dial is arranged with stylized black Arabic numerals and a subsidiary seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position. The upper hemisphere is dominated by the four distinct, crisp portraits of the Balkan monarchs. Time is indicated by original, vibrant blued steel spade-style hands.
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The Case: The massive 53mm oversize case commands attention with deep, high-relief repoussé work. The reverse features a prominent equestrian and cavalry motif: a finely detailed horse’s head framed within a large horseshoe, resting above a military saddle, bugle, and interwoven oak leaves. The outer edges of the case and bezel are deeply chased with intricate ivy and floral patterns.
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The Movement: The Swiss-style mechanical movement features a frosted gilt finish and an engraved balance bridge. Preserved in exceptional condition, the watch is in perfect working order, winding smoothly and keeping accurate time.
This is an unparalleled opportunity for collectors of military awards, Eastern European history, and early 20th-century horology to acquire a fully documented, family-provenance artifact from the First Balkan War.
The watch comes with CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY&APPRAISAL FOR $3000
If you are not satisfied in 100%,your money back guarantee.
Free shipping to worldwide,fully insured (possible by DHL overnight courier)
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