MINT c. 1916 SAXONIA German Naval Submarine Officer Award Silver Pocket Watch

Presenting a museum-grade, early 20th-century historical artifact and horological masterpiece: a c. 1916 SAXONIA Naval Submarine Officer’s Presentation Pocket Watch. Crafted by the renowned master watchmaker Albrecht Költzsch, this oversized 55mm timepiece represents the pinnacle of military-commissioned precision. Offered in pristine, mint original condition and perfect working order, it is accompanied by an official appraisal certificate valuing the piece at $9,000.

Historical Provenance

Dating to 1916, this exceptional timepiece was commissioned during the crucible of early 20th-century naval warfare. Watches of this extraordinary caliber were not standard issue; they were exclusive presentation pieces reserved for elite Naval Submarine Officers. The rigors of submarine navigation demanded absolute, uncompromising chronometric precision, as any deviation in timekeeping could result in catastrophic navigational errors beneath the waves. The prominent cross motif and period inscriptions on the dial speak to its distinguished military heritage, making it a highly significant acquisition for serious collectors of naval antiquities and master horology.

Horological Specifications & Movement

This watch houses a heavily decorated, A1 grade chronometer movement that showcases the highest echelons of period watchmaking.

• Master Watchmaker: Albrecht Költzsch

• Jeweling: 17 Jewels (Steine)

• Chatons: Features the maximum of 5 solid gold screwed chatons (rubies set in solid gold settings), a hallmark of top-tier chronometer-grade movements designed to minimize friction and wear.

• Regulation: Equipped with a precision micrometric swan neck regulator for hyper-accurate timing adjustments.

• Finish: Beautifully gilded bridges and plates, signed with the Saxonia hallmark, stating “17 JEWELS” with the serial number 2401121.

Dial & Hands

• Dial: The flawless white enamel dial features a crisp, highly legible military layout. It displays bold black Arabic numerals with an inner 24-hour track (13-24) in blue enamel.

• Signatures: Prominently signed “SAXONIA” above a historical naval cross emblem, with period patriotic inscriptions above the sub-seconds register.

• Hands: Exquisite, original solid gold Louis XV-style filigree hands that provide a striking contrast against the stark white enamel.

• Sub-Dial: Clean, oversized running seconds subsidiary dial at the 6 o’clock position.

Case Details

• Material: Heavy, solid 0.925 Silver.

• Size: Impressive 55mm oversized case, ensuring high visibility and a substantial presence.

• Design: The case back features exceptional Guilloché (engine-turned) texturing with a pristine, unmonogrammed central shield cartouche, leaving it exactly as it was when first crafted.

• Hallmarks: The inner case is fully hallmarked with the 0.925 silver stamp, the Swiss grouse, the Imperial crown and crescent, and the “SAXONIA SCHUTZMARKE” crested figure. Inner case serial number: 328605.

• Cuvette (Dust Cover): The inner dust cover is elegantly engraved with “ANKER SAXONIA 17 STEINE”.

Condition

Mint Original Condition. This remarkable timepiece has been immaculately preserved. The enamel dial is completely free of hairlines or chips. The engine-turned silver case retains deep, sharp details with minimal signs of handling. The movement is impeccably clean, functioning with chronometer-level precision and maintaining perfect working order.

Included in Sale:

• c. 1916 Saxonia Solid Silver Pocket Watch

• $9,000 Certified Appraisal Document

Carefully review all high-resolution macro photographs, as they serve as an integral part of this description. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a flawless, investment-grade piece of naval and horological history.