Every now and then rare and very interesting vintage watches often pop up at resellers. One such example would be this unique Art Deco Marvin watch that dates back to sometime in the 1940’s. The watch is an interesting skeleton watch that differs from most modern skeletonized watches. Typically, watch brands will make a skeleton watch because they allow the user to see into the inner workings of their timepiece. This is not the case for this Marvin.
The case on this watch is 35mm, however that is much larger than the actual movement found within the watch. Rather than cover the dial of the watch, Marvin has kept it open allowing the movement to be exactly the same size of the dial. Also, instead of removing pieces of the watch to expose the movement, which is usually what skeleton watches do, Marvin has cut out the dial and case. The result is a very unique and beautiful watch that is unlike anything we see today. The resulting effect makes it seem like the numerals are actually hovering above the case of the watch.
Aesthetically speaking, this Marvin does look pretty good. It’s simple and very traditional, yet it is also elegant and it appears as though it could be worn for any occasion. Personally I’d replace the strap, but that might anger vintage watch collectors. The watch is comprised of the main dial that tells the minutes and the hours, and then a smaller sub-second dial. The watch also has the words “Non Magnetic” on its face. At the time, this was a new selling point for luxury watches as they would not be altered or influenced by any magnetic forces, allowing them to retain their accuracy. You’re very unlikely to find a watch like this out in todays market, so if you want it, you’ll have to act fast. The watch is available through the Japanese antique watch reseller known as Private Eyes and it is listed for about $1,650. Head on over to this link to see the listing for the watch.
Photos from Private Eyes
