Extraordinary Antique WWI Era Military Presentation Crystal Ball Desk Watch 1916

Presenting a museum-grade, highly collectible antique military presentation desk watch dating to circa 1916. This exceptional timepiece takes the form of a spherical “crystal ball” or paperweight watch, measuring an impressive 65mm in diameter. Featuring incredibly well-preserved aviation motifs and military insignias from the First World War era, this watch is a remarkable artifact of early 20th-century history and horology.

Historical Context & Significance: The dial of this timepiece is a testament to the dawn of military aviation. It prominently features a highly detailed,  illustration of a Zeppelin airship—a marvel of engineering that dominated the skies during the WWI era. Beneath the central axis, the dial bears the historic military motto “Gott mit uns” (God with us), curving above a distinct military cross within the subsidiary seconds dial. Timepieces of this specific configuration and iconography were typically commissioned as high-ranking officer presentation pieces or commemorative artifacts honoring distinguished military service.

Dial & Hands:

• Dial: The pristine white enamel dial is in immaculate condition. It features bold, stylized black Arabic numerals for the 1-12 indices, complemented by a secondary outer track with blue 13-24 hour military time markings.

• Graphics: A crisp, beautifully executed airship graphic commands the center, balanced by the historic motto and cross sub-dial.

• Hands: Fitted with elegant, original gilt Louis-style hands with delicate floral accents decorated with Diamonds, adding a refined touch to the robust military design.

Case & Crystal:

• Design: The watch is encased in a magnificent, heavy spherical housing. The heavy, highly polished brass or gold-tone equatorial band is finely machined with intricate parallel engine-turned lines.

• Crystals: It features two massive, flawless magnifying glass domes (front and back). The thick front crystal magnifies the dial for excellent legibility on a desk, while the rear crystal serves as an exhibition case back.

• Dimensions: 65mm in diameter—a substantial, weighty piece with incredible desk presence.

Movement:

• Type: High-quality, antique mechanical movement.

• Visibility: The exhibition rear crystal offers a completely unobstructed, magnified view of the intricate mechanical workings, exposing the finely finished gears, plates, and balance wheel.

• Condition: The movement remains highly polished and visually perfect. (Note: As with all antique timepieces, professional servicing is recommended for daily timekeeping accuracy).

Condition Report: Perfect/Museum Quality. This piece has been exceptionally preserved. The glass hemispheres are completely intact without notable chips or scratches. The metal banding retains a brilliant, rich luster. The enamel dial is free of visible hairlines, and the movement is beautifully clean. A truly investment-grade artifact.

Technical Specifications:

• Era: Circa 1916 (WWI Period)

• Style: Crystal Ball / Spherical Desk Watch / Paperweight Watch

• Diameter: 65mm

• Motif: Military Aviation (Zeppelin / Airship), Military Cross

• Movement: Mechanical (Exhibition Back)

Shipping & Handling: Item will be professionally packaged with the utmost care, fully insured, and shipped via expedited courier to ensure secure global transit. Please review all high-resolution images as they represent the physical condition of the item. Feel free to reach out with any technical inquiries regarding this extraordinary timepiece. The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500