This vintage WWII, 1940's Swiss Colomby (Monroe) wristwatch has survived a lot during the past 70+ years but still is in exceptional cosmetic and mechanical condition!

The rolled gold plate case measures 1.12" in diameter, excluding crown and lugs and surrounds a very clean gold military dial complimented by black, once luminous, now dimmed, black leaf hour and minute hands, red center sweep second hand, black Arabic numbers, and black outer chapter.

The17 jewel Swiss movement, signed Colomby Watch Company, sets and winds as it should, is running well and keeping very good time.

It has a gold, snap-down back and is matched with a black and gold stainless-   steel flex scissor band with suits it perfectly.

STOCK CODE: C-1

 ABOUT THE BRAND:

 The Colomby Watch Company has an intriguing history that spans several decades. Let’s delve into its past:

1. Origins and Operation:

   • The Columbia Watch Co. was organized in 1896 by Edward A. Locke in Waltham, Massachusetts1.
   • It operated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, producing timepieces that captured the essence of their era.

2. Distinctive Features:

   • One notable Colomby watch from the 1940s stands out due to a unique detail: the red Cross of Lorraine on its dial.
   • The Cross of Lorraine was a patriotic symbol associated with the Free French Forces during World War II.
   • While many watches of that time featured this symbol, it was not an official military issue but likely created by watch companies for the Free French fighters alongside the British and Americans.

3. Symbolic Significance:

   • The Cross of Lorraine represented resilience, courage, and unity during a tumultuous period.
   • Its presence on Colomby watches adds an intriguing layer of historical context.

4. Mystery and Research:

   • Despite extensive research capabilities, the exact origins of this particular Colomby watch remain elusive.
   • Was it associated with the Free French Forces, the German 79th Infantry Division, or even the American forces in Vietnam? The answer remains a mystery.

In summary, the Colomby Watch Company left its mark on timekeeping history, blending craftsmanship with symbolism. The red Cross of Lorraine continues to evoke memories of a pivotal era, even as the details of individual watches remain shrouded in intrigue.

  We are Stonehenge Watch Company and have been selling vintage timepieces and new watches on the internet for over 17 years with hundreds of happy, satisfied, often repeat, customers.