Vulcain Split Seconds (Rattrapante) Chronograph

$2,300.00

Vulcain Split Seconds (Rattrapante) Chronograph

Step back into the golden age of mechanical timing with this stunning Vulcain Split-Seconds Chronograph. Known as a “Rattrapante,” this pocket watch was the “smartwatch” of its day, used by officials and engineers to capture split times with incredible accuracy. The dial is a work of art, featuring intricate blue, red, and black scales that allow for complex speed and distance calculations. Whether displayed in a collection or used as a desk clock, its steady hum and smooth-sweeping hands serve as a testament to Vulcain’s legacy as a premier Swiss manufacturer since 1858.

  • The Complication: This rare pocket watch features the elite Split-Seconds (Rattrapante) chronograph, a pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking that allows for the timing of two simultaneous events with its dual sweep-seconds hands.
  • Scientific Accuracy: The multi-colored telemeter and tachymeter scales on the crisp enamel dial allow for instant calculations of distance (based on sound) and speed over a measured 1000 meters.
  • The Dial: A stunning triple-signed “Vulcain Chronometre” dial featuring blued steel hands, a 30-minute register at 12 o’clock, and a constant seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock.
  • Collector’s Note: While Vulcain is synonymous with presidents and alarms, their early complicated chronographs are highly prized for their robust construction and movement finishing.
  • Overview: A massive, statement-making timepiece that bridges the gap between scientific instrument and luxury accessory.
  • Technical Highlights:
    • Complication: Full Split-Seconds functionality via a specialized top-pusher.
    • Visual Impact: Large-format case with a beautifully preserved enamel dial featuring rare red and blue scale detailing.
    • Pedigree: Signed “Vulcain” – a brand with a storied Swiss heritage dating back to 1858.
Technical Specs
  • Brand: Vulcain
  • Functions: Split-Seconds Chronograph, 30-minute totalizer, Telemeter, Tachymeter.
  • Case Size: Approximately 52mm–55mm (Oversized Professional).
  • Dial Material: High-grade Enamel (Pristine condition).
  • Movement: Manual-wind, high-grade Swiss lever movement.

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Description

Vulcain Split Seconds (Rattrapante) Chronograph

Rare Vintage Vulcain Chronomètre Split-Seconds Chronograph Pocket Watch. A magnificent example of mid-20th-century precision engineering, this Vulcain Chronomètre is a professional-grade split-seconds (rattrapante) chronograph. Designed for high-accuracy timing, the “split” function allows the user to time two simultaneous events or multiple intervals using the dual central hands. The pristine white enamel dial features a multi-scale layout with a tachymeter (red/black scales) and a 30-minute recorder at 12 o’clock. Housed in a robust open-face case with a classic “onion” crown and top-pusher, this piece represents the pinnacle of Vulcain’s pre-quartz era craftsmanship. A rare find for serious horological collectors.

Step back into the golden age of mechanical timing with this stunning Vulcain Split-Seconds Chronograph. Known as a “Rattrapante,” this pocket watch was the “smartwatch” of its day, used by officials and engineers to capture split times with incredible accuracy. The dial is a work of art, featuring intricate blue, red, and black scales that allow for complex speed and distance calculations. Whether displayed in a collection or used as a desk clock, its steady hum and smooth-sweeping hands serve as a testament to Vulcain’s legacy as a premier Swiss manufacturer since 1858.
Famous for making alarm wristwatches, Vulcain back in the day was also famous for other timepiece, this particular model from the early 20th century (possibly 1920s) was made using Valjoux base movement modified by Vulcain to offer split seconds chrono function.
  • The Complication: This rare pocket watch features the elite Split-Seconds (Rattrapante) chronograph, a pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking that allows for the timing of two simultaneous events with its dual sweep-seconds hands.
  • Scientific Accuracy: The multi-colored telemeter and tachymeter scales on the crisp enamel dial allow for instant calculations of distance (based on sound) and speed over a measured 1000 meters.
  • The Dial: A stunning triple-signed “Vulcain Chronometre” dial featuring blued steel hands, a 30-minute register at 12 o’clock, and a constant seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock.
  • Collector’s Note: While Vulcain is synonymous with presidents and alarms, their early complicated chronographs are highly prized for their robust construction and movement finishing.
  • Overview: A massive, statement-making timepiece that bridges the gap between scientific instrument and luxury accessory.
  • Technical Highlights:
    • Complication: Full Split-Seconds functionality via a specialized top-pusher.
    • Visual Impact: Large-format case with a beautifully preserved enamel dial featuring rare red and blue scale detailing.
    • Pedigree: Signed “Vulcain” – a brand with a storied Swiss heritage dating back to 1858.

Technical Specs

  • Brand: Vulcain
  • Functions: Split-Seconds Chronograph, 30-minute totalizer, Telemeter, Tachymeter.
  • Case Size: Approximately 52mm–55mm (Oversized Professional).
  • Dial Material: High-grade Enamel (Pristine condition).
  • Movement: Manual-wind, high-grade Swiss lever movement.
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