Oversized 70mm Antique WWI German Army Award Pocket Watch c.1916 – 24H Day/Night

Presenting an exceptional, museum-quality antique WWI German military award pocket watch. This formidable 70mm Goliath-sized timepiece is a stunning artifact of early 20th-century military history, combining profound patriotic provenance with striking mechanical ingenuity. Complete with a professional appraisal certificate for $8,000, this high-complication instrument is a centerpiece for serious collectors of historical, military, and esoteric horology.

Historical Context & Provenance

Dating to the heart of the First World War (c.1916), this oversized timepiece was crafted as a prestigious military award or commemorative presentation piece. The dial proudly displays the patriotic motto “Alles für Deutschland” (Everything for Germany) positioned immediately above the iconic Eisernes Kreuz (Iron Cross), the preeminent German military decoration for valor and bravery. Watches of this scale and distinct thematic design were often commissioned for high-ranking officers or as exceptional honors for distinguished wartime service.

Detailed Specifications

The Dial

• Design & Layout: A pristine white enamel dial featuring a unique layout designed for precision reading.

• Numerals: Distinct, easily legible Arabic numerals forming the outer minute/second track (1 through 60), ensuring high accuracy.

• Complication (Day/Night): The upper hemisphere reveals a beautifully executed, rotating 24-hour day/night indicator disc. The disc features detailed depictions of a brilliant sunburst for daytime hours and a crescent moon surrounded by stars for the night.

• Military Emblems: Crisp, bold black enamel text (“Alles für Deutschland”) and a highly detailed Iron Cross dominate the lower hemisphere.

The Case

• Dimensions: An imposing 70mm in diameter, fitting the traditional “Goliath” pocket watch classification.

• Bezel & Edges: The case perimeter is heavily ornamented with intricate, high-relief floral and vine motifs in a contrasting gold tone, framing the watch magnificently.

• Case Back: The reverse side reveals a breathtaking, deeply engraved sporting or hunting scene. It depicts wild fowl (ducks/geese) in mid-flight over a detailed marshland, framed by geometric and flowing Art Nouveau-style borders.

The Movement & Cuvette

• Dust Cover (Cuvette): The inner polished cuvette is elegantly engraved with its technical specifications: “ANCRE DOUBLE PLATEAU / LEVÉES VISIBLES / 15 Rubis” — denoting a high-grade anchor escapement with a double roller, visible pallets, and 15 jewels.

• Movement: Opening the back reveals a meticulously preserved manual-wind movement. The frosted gilt plates, exposed winding wheels, and precision lever escapement highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of the era.

Condition Report

• Dial: Excellent antique condition. The enamel remains bright with crisp, unfaded graphics and numerals. The rotating day/night disc functions beautifully.

• Case: The heavy oversized case retains remarkable definition in its high-relief engravings. Beautiful, authentic patina is present, consistent with a century-old military artifact.

• Movement: Clean and mechanically sound, showcasing bright gilt plates and well-preserved components. (Note: As with all antique timepieces, routine professional servicing is recommended for daily use).

Included in Sale

• 70mm WWI German Army Award Pocket Watch

• Official Professional Appraisal Certificate ($8,000 Valuation)

A strictly investment-grade historical timepiece, ready for the most discerning collection. Please review all provided photographs carefully, as they represent the exact item you will receive.