Jump Hour movement - what is it?

[Dymitr]

Hello,

I have just bought a jump hour watch. Do not know the brand. I wish you would help with that. Here some pohotos:

http://img532.imageshack.us/img532/6632/dsc00328s.jpg


http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/5673/dsc00344y.jpg

On the side with dials thats something like M in the triangle.

Could you say anything about this watch? About the movement? I guess its from early 1920.

Best Regards,

 

[Dymitr]

I guess it is A.M. I found the signature. If is it what's that then?

 

[Cary Hurt]

That is the mark of A. Michel SA of Grenchen, Switzerland. They joined Ebauches SA in 1926.

From the styling, I would say 1930s. The movement is a low jewel count (probably four or six) cylinder escapement, and would be considered as more of a novelty movement than a serious timekeeper. The jump hour complication does give it some collectors interest.

 

[Dymitr]

Thank you. I just found something about Michel SA. But I can not find this movement. The earliest caliber from ranfft is from late 1930 and looks really modern according to this one.

 

[Dave Haynes]

You haven't giver the size, but some close models are: 83/4L 575 and 93/4L 350. This last one is very close only without the decorative cut out in the plate. A.Michel made lots of movements in the 20-30s and was very popular.

 

[Kate N]

It's definitely an A.Michel calibre 453

..which is a 10 1/2 lignes movement.
Looks like it's in relatively good condition.
According to what I've read, it's from the 1930s.

Kate

 

[Dymitr]

Thank you! I have been just testing this watch for accuracy and it runs very well.