This watch has a poorly working chronograph. When the chronograph hand resets, it will only sometimes line up correctly at the 12 hour marker. Apart from that watch and chronograph functions well
For sale is a historically significant and captivating vintage Favre-Leuba chronograph, a prime example of mid-century horology from Switzerland’s second-oldest watchmaker. Founded in 1737, Favre-Leuba carries a deep and respected pedigree for building no-nonsense instruments. This 1950s bi-compax chronograph is a testament to the golden era of Swiss watchmaking.
The dial is a true standout, featuring a multi-scale "scientific instrument" layout that is highly desired by modern collectors. A blue outer tachymeter ring is designed to measure speed over a known distance, while the red inner telemeter ring tracks distance based on the speed of sound, originally used for artillery, but perfect for tracking an incoming lightning storm. The bi-compax configuration includes running seconds at 9 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, complemented by classic syringe-style hands and bold Arabic numerals. Housed in a gold-plated case, the natural brassing on the lugs is not a flaw; it proudly displays its unpolished, honest life, making it a rugged yet elegant survival tool.
Key Features:
Brand: Favre-Leuba
Era: Late 1940s to 1950s
Case Style: Gold-plated with natural, honest brassing on the lugs
Dial: Original creamy dial with a multi-scale layout (blue tachymeter and red telemeter)
Hands: Classic syringe-style hands
Numerals: Bold Arabic numerals
Movement: Manual Wind Mechanical (Bi-Compax Chronograph)
Condition: Honest vintage condition with warm patina and character-enhancing wear
Why Collectors Love It: Vintage bi-compax chronographs are highly sought after, and this Favre-Leuba delivers both rarity and an exceptional technical pedigree. Modern collectors are heavily gravitating toward dials that look like vintage dashboard gauges, and this piece perfectly captures that aesthetic with its complex, multi-colored telemeter and tachymeter tracks. In a market full of over-restored pieces, the warm, creamy patina and natural lug wear favor originality, offering the genuine character of a life well-lived. Paired with a textured leather strap, this gold-tone chronograph is a versatile, dependable, and historically rich cornerstone for any serious vintage watch collection.
Return Policy All watch purchases from Arrows Vintage Watches include a 48-hour return window. If you’re not fully satisfied, you may return the watch at your expense using the same insured shipping method it was sent with, and in the same condition it was received. Once the watch is returned and inspected, refunds will be issued within 7 days via the original payment method.
All returns and cancellations will be charged a restocking fee around 3% of the total item price. This is the cost of using a payment processor on the site.
This watch has a poorly working chronograph. When the chronograph hand resets, it will only sometimes line up correctly at the 12 hour marker. Apart from that watch and chronograph functions well
For sale is a historically significant and captivating vintage Favre-Leuba chronograph, a prime example of mid-century horology from Switzerland’s second-oldest watchmaker. Founded in 1737, Favre-Leuba carries a deep and respected pedigree for building no-nonsense instruments. This 1950s bi-compax chronograph is a testament to the golden era of Swiss watchmaking.
The dial is a true standout, featuring a multi-scale "scientific instrument" layout that is highly desired by modern collectors. A blue outer tachymeter ring is designed to measure speed over a known distance, while the red inner telemeter ring tracks distance based on the speed of sound, originally used for artillery, but perfect for tracking an incoming lightning storm. The bi-compax configuration includes running seconds at 9 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, complemented by classic syringe-style hands and bold Arabic numerals. Housed in a gold-plated case, the natural brassing on the lugs is not a flaw; it proudly displays its unpolished, honest life, making it a rugged yet elegant survival tool.
Key Features:
Brand: Favre-Leuba
Era: Late 1940s to 1950s
Case Style: Gold-plated with natural, honest brassing on the lugs
Dial: Original creamy dial with a multi-scale layout (blue tachymeter and red telemeter)
Hands: Classic syringe-style hands
Numerals: Bold Arabic numerals
Movement: Manual Wind Mechanical (Bi-Compax Chronograph)
Condition: Honest vintage condition with warm patina and character-enhancing wear
Why Collectors Love It: Vintage bi-compax chronographs are highly sought after, and this Favre-Leuba delivers both rarity and an exceptional technical pedigree. Modern collectors are heavily gravitating toward dials that look like vintage dashboard gauges, and this piece perfectly captures that aesthetic with its complex, multi-colored telemeter and tachymeter tracks. In a market full of over-restored pieces, the warm, creamy patina and natural lug wear favor originality, offering the genuine character of a life well-lived. Paired with a textured leather strap, this gold-tone chronograph is a versatile, dependable, and historically rich cornerstone for any serious vintage watch collection.
Return Policy All watch purchases from Arrows Vintage Watches include a 48-hour return window. If you’re not fully satisfied, you may return the watch at your expense using the same insured shipping method it was sent with, and in the same condition it was received. Once the watch is returned and inspected, refunds will be issued within 7 days via the original payment method.
All returns and cancellations will be charged a restocking fee around 3% of the total item price. This is the cost of using a payment processor on the site.
