Stunning and rare military issue Minerva single button pilot's chronograph, manufactured in 1939 and sold in the 1940s to an American B29 tail gunner in Europe. The watch is completely original with the highlight being the "snail" gilt dial with tachymeter scale which is beautifully preserved. The mushroom shaped winding crown is also perfect and without any chips or dents. The column wheel chronograph movement is a manufacture grade Cal 17’ manual wind in perfect condition. The large balance movement was made to keep time as accurately as a chronometer pocket watch. The watch features aa snap back case and fixed lug bars which we fitted with a custom-made pilot’s open-end strap.
Footnote: The watch was purchased as a memento of WWII by SSgt Otis Nelson of the US Air Corp when he was stationed in Europe. It remained in his possession until he died in 1985. The watch was well taken care of.
