Henry Sandoz Split Seconds | Rattrapante Chronograph

The Henri Sandoz Split Seconds Chronograph (c. 1890s) is an exceptional example of late 19th-century Swiss horology, originating from the highly-respected workshop of Henri Frédéric Sandoz in Le Locle.

Overview

This timepiece features a split-seconds (rattrapante) complication, one of the most challenging mechanisms in watchmaking, designed to measure simultaneous events or intermediate lap times. High-grade Sandoz pieces from this era often utilized movements with ébauches (raw movements) from specialists like Le Phare.

Key Technical Specifications

• Complication: Split-seconds chronograph operated via a pusher.
• Dial: White enamel dial signed “Henry Sandoz / Locle” with Roman numeral hour markers and a 1/5th second outer graduation track.
• Sub-dial: Constant seconds sub-dial located at the 6 o’clock position.
• Hands: Traditionally features blued steel hands, including the two superimposed chronograph seconds hands.
• Case Size: Typically massive for its era, often measuring between 53mm and 55mm in diameter.
• Movement: Nickel-plated mechanical manual-wind movement, often featuring a lever escapement and high jewel counts (e.g., 20 jewels) in premium models.

Historical Significance

• The Maker: Henri Frédéric Sandoz was a prolific inventor and master watchmaker who founded Henri Sandoz & Cie in the 1870s.
• Legacy: Sandoz later established the Tavannes Watch Co. and the Cyma brand, becoming a pioneer in precision manufacturing and specialized watchmaking machinery.
• Rarity: While Sandoz later became known for mass-market watches, these early “Le Locle” signed complicated pocket watches remain highly collectible due to their mechanical complexity and craftsmanship.

“A rare artifact of Swiss precision, this Henri Sandoz Split Seconds Chronograph represents the pinnacle of 19th-century mechanical complication. Signed by the master himself in Le Locle, its massive 54mm presence and elegant enamel dial make it a cornerstone for any serious horological collection.”

Condition Report

Case : Open face round case (52mm) with snap type bezel and snap back cover appears to be in good condition. To set time, the bezel has to be opened and by switching the hidden lever on the edge. The snap back cover is signed on inside with “DUEBER COIN” with serial “2502683” which appears to be in silver material. Inner case ring has reference no. 2683 marked on the edge. The split seconds chrono founction is operated by the 2 pushers buttons locating on the side of the case at 8:30 & 9:30 position.

Dial : White original enamel dial appears to be in visibly good condition with small dots on dial surface but no crack. Roman numbers.

Hands : Good aged blue steel hands have turned purple.

Movement : Original movement with column wheel mechanism is signed with No.653 is in relatively clean and fully functional condition.

Remarks

This has been one of my rare find from approx. 30 years ago. This pocket split seconds chronograph shows some rare designs such as the early type pushers and the lever set time. Particularly with its condition for an over hundred years old pocket watch.