Early waterproof design: Alpina with the CH 207378 watch case
Alpina is a frequently discussed brand in my collection. One of those reasons is innovation and stepping into the unknown. The watch featured is an Alpina with Cal. 490 in a rectangular steel watch case. But not your ordinary case design. This is the Taubert Patent (Brevet) CH 207378 that made an attempt to waterproof a rectangular wristwatch.
In short this was a very innovative design with an inner case compartment with gaskets being pressed together with the metal sliders on the sides of the outer case.
The patent for this new case was registered on 25th August 1938 as Swiss patent CH 207378, and published 31st October 1939.
Read more about this patent, François Borgel and Taubert on: www.vintagewatchstraps.com
An Alpina wristwatch that clearly had a previous life. Scratches on the case, a dial with patina but now revived to show this incredibly rare case design. This Alpina comes with serial number 176050 which is estimated for 1944.
Alpina men size in a 1943 magazine.
Alpina lady size in a 1943 magazine.
1941 drawing featured in this VINTAGE VIEW article on waterproof watch of 1941.
Rarity
Made in very little numbers. Another example know is this one sold by Meticulous Watches. Showing serial number 176027 which is made 23 watches earlier then the one shown above.
Not only Alpinas
Other brands that featured watches with this patent 207378 are Mido, Mathey-Tissot, Movado, Jules Jurgensen and Patek Philippe with reference 1486 and 1486.
A Mido Multifort with Taubert patent 207378 in steel with cal. 800c.
Patek Philippe ref. 1485 with a Taubert 207378 patented case in steel.
Patek Philippe ref. 1486 with a Taubert 207378 patented case in 18k gold.
Do you own a Alpina, Mido, Patek or any other watch with this Brevet or do you have more information about this watch?
I would like to get in contact with you!