
Wristwatches · Wristwatch
Eberhard & Co, Stainless Steel Case, Parechoc, circa 1948–1952
- Maker / attribution
- Eberhard (maker)
- Date
- c. 1948–1952
- Historical period
- Modern Mechanical Horology (1945 – 1969)
- Country of origin
- Switzerland
- Object type
- Wristwatch
- Materials / technique
- stainless steel
- Stock no.
- vws4191
- Credit line
- Dealer listing, Vintage Watch Specialist (vws4191)
- Catalogue title (original)
- Eberhard & Co - Stainless Steel Case - Parechoc - c.1948–1952 (English)
View the source record (dealer listing) ↗ (opens another website in a new tab)Suggest a correction
Record summary
Catalogued by Vintage Watch Specialist (dealer), United Kingdom (stock number vws4191), this is a wristwatch by Eberhard, made in Switzerland, dated c. 1948–1952. The Atlas places it in the Modern Mechanical Horology period (1945 – 1969) of its Wristwatches collection. Materials and techniques recorded by the source: stainless steel. The record is illustrated with 6 photographs.
Assembled from the source record's structured fields. Dates and attributions are given as the source states them; where a field is missing the Atlas leaves it blank rather than estimating.
Catalogue description
Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist
A characterful Eberhard & Co. with distinctive fancy lugs, Parechoc shock protection and beautifully aged dial, c.1950s Eberhard & Co. was founded in 1887 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and quickly gained recognition for its precision chronometers and innovative chronographs. The brand became particularly respected in the early 20th century for producing robust, high-quality timepieces, including military-issued watches. Eberhard played a key role in developing advanced chronograph functions and elegant designs. Today, it remains admired for its heritage, technical expertise, and contribution to classic Swiss watchmaking traditions. What's on Offer This Eberhard & Co. is a striking vintage piece, defined by its distinctive “fancy lug” design—an elegant yet slightly unconventional detail that sets it apart from more traditional cases of the period. It gives the watch a unique silhouette on the wrist, adding both presence and personality. The dial has aged with a soft, even patina, creating a warm, lived-in look that collectors value highly. Bold numerals and subtle detailing maintain excellent legibility, while the red central seconds hand introduces a touch of colour that lifts the overall design. The inclusion of “Parechoc” on the dial highlights its early shock protection system, reflecting the era’s move towards more robust, everyday wristwatches. The stainless steel case presents well, with honest signs of wear that reflect its age without detracting from its appeal. Paired with a red leather strap, the watch takes on a slightly more contemporary edge while still retaining its vintage charm. Powered by an in-house Eberhard movement, this piece offers both mechanical integrity and heritage. A stylish and individual watch, perfect for those seeking something a little different within classic vintage dress watches.
Historical context
Modern Mechanical Horology (1945 – 1969)
Tool watches for divers, pilots and astronauts; electric watches anticipate the electronic age.
The classic era of the mechanical wristwatch: dive watches, chronographs for motor racing and space flight, GMT watches for jet travel, slim dress watches, automatic calendars, and the rise of Japanese manufacturers alongside Swiss, American, German and Soviet industries.
Read the period in the timelineMore wristwatches from this periodEarlier: Golden Age of Mechanical Watchmaking
Atlas type guide
Wristwatches
Bracelet watches were worn by women from the early nineteenth century — Breguet made one for Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples, in 1810–12 — but the wristwatch only became a man's instrument with military use and aviation in the early twentieth century. Between the World Wars it overtook the pocket watch; the 1920s and 1930s brought rectangular Art Deco cases, water-resistant cases and the first automatic winding systems.
After 1945 the wristwatch became a carrier of identity — dress watches, sports and dive watches, chronographs, calendars — produced by Swiss, American, Japanese, German, Soviet and Chinese industries. The quartz revolution after 1969 and the mechanical renaissance since the 1990s, including the rise of independent watchmakers, complete the story.
What to look for
- The reference number (between the lugs or inside the case back) and serial number, the starting point for dating.
- The calibre: its maker and number are often stamped under the dial or on the bridge.
- Originality of dial, hands and crown — refinished ('redial') dials are common.
- Case material marks: 18K/750, 14K/585, stainless steel, gold-filled, plated.
Dating clues
- Wire-lug cases: before c. 1925.
- Water-resistant screw-down cases: from 1926.
- Quartz movements: from 1969; sapphire crystals widespread after c. 1980.
General guidance written by the Atlas editors about this kind of object. It is not a statement about this particular piece; for that, rely on the source record above and on physical examination.
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