RARE Museum-Quality WWI Central Powers Military Presentation Pocket Watch c1914

An Extraordinary Piece of World War I Horological and Military History

Up for auction is a museum-quality, exceptionally rare WWI-era Central Powers coalition military presentation pocket watch. Measuring a substantial 50mm, this phenomenal timepiece was awarded to a Bulgarian officer for outstanding bravery and service. Preserved in perfect condition, it stands as a testament to early 20th-century military honors and exquisite European craftsmanship.

This is a premier acquisition for serious collectors of antique horology, WWI military artifacts, and Royal Bulgarian history.

Historical Context

During the First World War, the Kingdom of Bulgaria played a crucial strategic role in the Central Powers coalition. To honor immense valor and battlefield bravery, high-ranking officers and distinguished soldiers were awarded presentation timepieces by the state.

This specific watch features a magnificent, high-relief gold-tone portrait of Tsar Ferdinand I of Bulgaria, the reigning monarch who led the nation through the Balkan Wars and into WWI. The opposing side proudly displays the Royal Coat of Arms of Bulgaria—a striking, intricately detailed gold-tone lion rampant set against a brilliant red enamel shield, surmounted by the Royal Crown. Such impeccable preservation of these appliqués is virtually unheard of, making this a true investment-grade historical artifact.

Detailed Specifications

• Era/Origin: Circa 1915–1918 (World War I), Kingdom of Bulgaria / Swiss Manufacture

• Item Type: Military Presentation Pocket Watch (Award for Bravery)

• Case Diameter: 50mm (excluding crown and bow)

• Case Material: Gunmetal/darkened steel with stunning gold-tone and red enamel appliqués.

• Case Details: The substantial gunmetal case showcases two masterfully crafted emblems: a highly detailed bas-relief profile of Tsar Ferdinand I, and a magnificent Bulgarian Royal Crest with vivid red enamel detailing.

• Dial: The pristine, original dial features crisp, highly legible Arabic numerals (1–12), complemented by an elegant outer minute track and a sunken sub-seconds register at the 6 o’clock position.

• Hands: Original, beautifully preserved blued steel hands.

• Movement: A high-grade, Swiss-made manual wind mechanical movement. It features a beautiful gilt-frosted finish, exposed winding wheels, and ruby jewels. The movement is remarkably clean and reflects top-tier craftsmanship typical of high-end officer awards from this era.

• Condition: Perfect. This timepiece has been meticulously preserved. The movement runs beautifully, the dial is exceptionally clean, and the intricate case appliqués show incredibly crisp detail with intact enamel.

Collector’s Notes

Military presentation watches from the Central Powers, particularly those originating from the Bulgarian Royal Court, are incredibly scarce on the open market. Finding one with intact red enamel on the royal crest, zero degradation to the gunmetal finish, and such a flawless dial is exceptionally rare.

Please carefully review all high-resolution photographs as they are central to the description of this magnificent timepiece.

Shipping & Handling: The watch will be securely packaged with the utmost care, fully insured, and shipped via expedited international courier with signature confirmation required.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500