Description

An unusual and highly interesting antique double-sided chronograph pocket watch, featuring a traditional timekeeping dial to the front and a chronograph stopwatch display to the rear with a visible movement. Watches of this type are considerably less common than standard pocket watches and offer a fascinating glimpse into late Victorian or early Edwardian chronograph design.

The front dial displays the time with subsidiary seconds, whilst the rear incorporates a chronograph stopwatch display surrounding the visible movement. The chronograph is operated by depressing the crown and starts, stops and resets correctly.

The watch is engraved "A.J.A. White" to the front bezel. The previous owner stated that Mr White carried the watch whilst serving during the Boer War. Research has identified two men named A.J.A. White who served during the conflict; one with the Australian Commonwealth Horse and another with the Cape Police in South Africa. Unfortunately, there is insufficient evidence to conclusively link this watch to either individual.

The case appears to be silver, although no hallmarks or maker's marks have been located. The movement also appears unsigned, though the dials have not been removed for further inspection. The watch is currently running correctly and has therefore been left undisturbed.

Maker History

While the maker remains unknown, double-sided chronograph pocket watches such as this were typically produced by specialist Swiss manufacturers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often for retailers who then sold them under their own names or unsigned.

Key Details

• Type: Double-Sided Chronograph Pocket Watch
• Period: Late Victorian / Early Edwardian (circa 1890–1910)
• Engraving: "A.J.A. White"
• Case Material: Appears to be silver (no visible hallmarks)
• Movement: Stem wound, pin set chronograph movement
• Dial Layout: Front time dial with subsidiary seconds
• Rear Display: Chronograph stopwatch dial with visible movement
• Chronograph Operation: Crown-operated start, stop and reset
• Dial: White enamel with Roman numerals
• Hands: Blued steel hands
• Supplied in Bowles Ltd gift box

Dimensions

• Case Diameter: 50.9mm
• Thickness: 21.6mm

Condition

• Running and keeping good time when tested
• Winds and sets correctly
• Chronograph starts, stops and resets correctly
• Hairline cracks visible to the front enamel dial
• Rear chronograph chapter ring shows age-related patination
• Case in good overall condition with no major dents noted
• Wear to the decorative engraving around the case sides consistent with age
• Both crystals are clean and free from damage
• Date of last service unknown; service recommended for reliable long-term use

Summary

A fascinating and uncommon double-sided chronograph pocket watch with an attractive visible movement display, working chronograph function and possible Boer War association. An excellent collector's piece combining horological interest, military research potential and impressive visual appeal.

Postage & Shipping

As usual, this item will be packaged carefully and dispatched with tracking. International shipping is available upon request.

Important Notes About Antique & Vintage Watches & Movements

This item is being sold as a vintage or antique timepiece. We have described the condition as accurately as possible at the time of listing, however no guarantee can be given regarding accuracy, reliability, or future performance. The service history is unknown and a service or repair may be required before use, or for long term reliability.