Lemania Chronograph

Lemania is a name that's often heard in vintage chronograph collectors' circles, and for very good reason. In 1932, Lemania joined Omega and Tissot to form SSIH (Société Suisse pour l’Industrie Horlogére SA). It was this relationship--particularly with Omega--that would result in the creation of some of the most iconic calibers in horological history, like the Lemania 1873 (or Omega Caliber .861) found in the legendary Omega Speedmaster.

Like many manufacturers, Lemania also equipped watches to the world's militaries, including those of Sweden and the United Kingdom. For many collectors, they encapsulate the essence of "tool watch" in their most elemental form--if for no other reason than that they were built to be issued to sailors, soldiers, and airmen and brought into some of the harshest environments possible. Their stark, no-frills designs were universally practical and rugged, intended for maximum utility.

Within the range of military-issued timepieces, aviator's chronographs are among the most desirable. Some--like the Zenith A. Cairelli issued to the Italian Air Force--have become nothing short of legendary. Unfortunately, with notoriety often comes a legendary price tag, so it's fortunate that there are less expensive options with sterling military pedigrees and the same mechanicals to choose from.

This piece, issued to the South African Air Force in the 1970s, uses the Calibre 1872, a two register manual winding version of the Calibre 1873.  Keeping with the stark, function-first designs commonly associated with military timekeepers, this pieces uses Bund-style Arabic hour markers and a handset very similar to everyone's favorite Moonwatch.  Showing signs (in the form of contract-replacement components) of a long and distinguished service in the SAAF, this timepiece offers a tremendous value for a legitimate military-issued chronograph.  Don't miss it!

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Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.