EXTRAORDINARY MUSEUM QUALITY 1936 Berlin Olympics Chronograph Pocket Watch 51mm

An exceptional opportunity to acquire a true museum-grade artifact of significant historical and horological importance. This remarkably preserved, 51mm antique chronograph pocket watch was specially commissioned to commemorate the 1936 XI Olympiad in Berlin. Combining world-class precision timing capabilities with profound historical provenance, this piece is an absolute must-have for serious collectors of rare sports chronographs and mid-century historical timepieces.

Historical Context: The 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin represented a massive global milestone in athletic competition and the rigorous evolution of sports timekeeping. Events of this magnitude required unparalleled precision to accurately record world records on a global stage. This watch stands as a highly specialized timing instrument of that era. The reverse of the case commemorates the event with a beautifully detailed engraving of the iconic Brandenburg Gate—a symbol of the host city—perched above the “1936” date, the official “XI. OLYMPIADE BERLIN” designation, and the five interlocking Olympic rings.

The Dial: The watch features a flawless, highly complex white enamel dial designed for advanced timing calculations.

• Numerals: Crisp, bold black Arabic numerals provide excellent legibility.

• Outer Scales: A sophisticated “Base = 1000” tachymeter/telemeter track presented in striking alternating red and black text, allowing for precise speed and distance calculations.

• Inner Scale: A delicate inner 24-hour spiral scale (13-24) printed in vibrant blue.

• Sub-dials: A vertical twin-register layout featuring a 30-minute chronograph counter at the 12 o’clock position and a constant running seconds sub-dial at the 6 o’clock position.

• Hands: Elegant, blued-steel hands with an exceptionally fine central chronograph sweep second hand.

The Movement: Opening the case back reveals a breathtaking, high-grade mechanical chronograph movement. The pristine architectural layout of the gears, bridges, and ruby jewels demonstrates masterful craftsmanship. A uniquely rare and fascinating feature of this specific movement is a specialized bridge engraved with the French text “CI DESSOUS FOURNITURES DE RECHANGE” (Underneath Spare Parts), indicating a highly unusual, dedicated internal compartment designed to house spare components for the watchmaker—a true hallmark of high-end, professional-grade timing instruments meant for prolonged use in the field.

Condition:

• Aesthetics: Perfect condition. The case displays an excellent, bright finish with sharp, fully intact engravings on the reverse. The complex multi-colored enamel dial is remarkably preserved, free from hairline cracks or discoloration.

• Mechanics: The exposed movement is incredibly clean, maintaining its brilliant metallic luster, and stands as a testament to the care this artifact has received over the last nine decades.

Specifications:

• Diameter: 51mm (excluding the crown/bow)

• Theme: 1936 XI Olympiad, Berlin

• Complications: Chronograph, 30-Minute Register, Tachymeter/Telemeter

• Dial: White enamel, Arabic numerals, multi-colored scales

Please review all high-resolution macro photographs carefully, as they represent the exact museum-quality piece you will receive. Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding this magnificent historical timepiece.