Technicum Le Locle Triple Date Moonphase Chronograph “Datocompax” School Watch, 1960s

Dealer description — Bulang & Sons

This moonphase and annual calendar complication chronograph, known as a ‘Dato Compax,’ is a particularly special piece! Referred to as a ‘school watch’ or ‘montre école,’ this watch was created by a watchmaking student as part of their practical dissertation to graduate. Swiss technical colleges, like the Technicum in Le Locle, were established in the late 19th century to meet the demand for formally trained watchmakers, a crucial role in Switzerland’s renowned watchmaking industry. Located near La Chaux-de-Fonds—the birthplace of Swiss horology—Le Locle has a deep-rooted watchmaking tradition dating back to the 1600s. The Technicum D’Horlogerie is well-regarded for producing exceptional timepieces. For their school watches, students were given movements to modify and finish to reflect their skill. Initially, these ‘school movements’ were used for pocket watches, but with the rise of wristwatches, students transitioned to working with base calibers from different manufacturers. This particular example features a steel case with two pushers on the right side and two correctors on the left, a sleek design complemented by a hexagonal screw-down case back. The dial displays apertures for the day and month in the upper half, with three sub-dials for the moonphase and chronograph functions. It includes gold indexes, an applied “12,” a blue scale for the date, and elegant gold Dauphine hands. The student-made adjustments to the Valjoux caliber 88 showcase impressive aesthetic enhancements, including Côtes de Genève and chamfering, making this timepiece even more unique. Paired with a tasteful Bulang & Sons strap, this watch has been fully serviced by our watchmaker. A testament to the history and heritage of Swiss watchmaking, this timepiece is as beautiful as it is storied. Contact us today to make this rare watch yours! Specifications: - Technicum Le Locle “School Watch” - 35mm steel case with hexagonal screw-down case back - Chronograph - Triple Date - Moonphase - Dating to the 1960s - Silver dial with gold indexes and blue date scale; French language date display - Moonphase indicator with brown hue - Hand-finished Valjoux 88 movement - Fully serviced by our watchmaker