
Vintage Mathey-Tissot Military-Style Field Watch
This is a vintage mid-20th century wristwatch by the Swiss manufacturer Mathey-Tissot, likely dating from the 1940s or early 1950s. The watch features a stainless steel or chrome-plated round case with sharp, downward-curving lugs and a simple polished bezel. The most distinctive element is the heavily patinated ivory-toned dial, which shows significant aging including spotting, scuffing, and discoloration (foxing). The dial is configured with large, stylized Arabic numerals that were originally luminescent, though the fill has darkened over time. Notable cathedral-style or 'skeleton' hands for the hours and minutes are paired with a thin, vibrant red center seconds hand, a common feature for military or medical 'corpsman' watches of the era. The dial is signed 'Mathey-Tissot' in cursive script and 'SHOCK ABSORBER' above the 6 o'clock position, indicating a mechanical movement protected against impact. The crystal exhibits several scratches and wear consistent with heavy use. It is currently paired with a modern tan nylon NATO-style ribbed strap. The crown is oversized, designed for easy winding. Overall, the piece displays a high degree of 'honest wear' and character that is highly sought after by collectors of vintage military-style horology.
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Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Basic Information
Category
Antique/Vintage Watches
Appraised On
March 7, 2026
Estimated Value
$450 - $650
Item Description
This is a vintage mid-20th century wristwatch by the Swiss manufacturer Mathey-Tissot, likely dating from the 1940s or early 1950s. The watch features a stainless steel or chrome-plated round case with sharp, downward-curving lugs and a simple polished bezel. The most distinctive element is the heavily patinated ivory-toned dial, which shows significant aging including spotting, scuffing, and discoloration (foxing). The dial is configured with large, stylized Arabic numerals that were originally luminescent, though the fill has darkened over time. Notable cathedral-style or 'skeleton' hands for the hours and minutes are paired with a thin, vibrant red center seconds hand, a common feature for military or medical 'corpsman' watches of the era. The dial is signed 'Mathey-Tissot' in cursive script and 'SHOCK ABSORBER' above the 6 o'clock position, indicating a mechanical movement protected against impact. The crystal exhibits several scratches and wear consistent with heavy use. It is currently paired with a modern tan nylon NATO-style ribbed strap. The crown is oversized, designed for easy winding. Overall, the piece displays a high degree of 'honest wear' and character that is highly sought after by collectors of vintage military-style horology.
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