Presented today we have the original Presidents watch. An extremely fine manually wound gold plated Vulcain Cricket Alarm watch hailing from the 1950s. Originally presented to a succession of presidents and worn by figures such as Truman, Roosevelt, and even Obama these Cricket models were at the height of horology in history. The reference 305005 caliber 120 here today was one such reference. It is actually an unverified claim that Truman was presented a Cricket reference 305005 by the White House Press Corp in 1953 when leaving office. Now is your chance to own one such model for yourself. The world renowned caliber 120 that powers this historic timepiece has been completely disassembled, cleaned and lubricated. In wonderful overall condition it is running incredibly strong and keeps great time. This movement is nestled safely and securely inside the specially designed 33.5mm wide without the original signed crown and 43mm lug to lug gold plated resonance case. This wonderfully polished case with its 17mm lyre type lugs has been fitted to what could be the original bracelet but I am unsure if it is for certain. If it isnt, it is the perfect fit. It is a very nice condition vintage Spiedel gold plated expansion bracelet that is designed to fit almost any wrist securely and comfortably. As mentioned the case is a resonance style case with a stainless steel hollow body outer shell designed to amplify the alarm sound when activated. This shell is where the reference number and Vulcain branding are located. The outer shell features a silky mirror like polished circumference and brushed inner portion with the typing and engraving. The inner body is also a stainless steel shell and protects the movement very securely. The watch features the original gold plated V Vulcain signed winding crown and gold plated alarm button. Under the brand new scratch free acrylic GS ET crystal lies a wonderfully aged and uniquely patinated creme colored original dial. Surrounding the dial is the alarm minute notations in a clear black print and done in denominations of 10 minutes. Within this ring is the stylized golden numeral and arrow hour markers. Pointing to these markers are the original golden hour and minute hands which have been relumed with a lovely dial patina matching tone of fill.  The alarm hand is a new replacement hand and the second hands black color has also been redone. The Vulcain branding and Cricket model print is in black and is crisp, clear, and legible. As an honest watchmaker I do have notes from service that must be disclosed. My only concern is with the keyless works. Currently there are no problems at all with the watch and its functioning correctly. However I do feel the setting lever and yoke interaction will need addressing at some point in the future. Replacement parts are obtainable without too much of a search but time and work must press on so I will have to disclose this issue and sell as such. If a setting issue arises you know exactly where the problem is. Also the alarm will go off about 5 to 8 mins early from the time set. So for example if you want the alarm to sound at noon set the the alarm hand just a hair past noon right before the 10 minute mark on the outer alarm ring. These are the only two things of note otherwise this is one absolutely fantastic looking and strong running historical piece of horology just waiting to grace the wrist of the next proud owner. Dont miss your opportunity to own your very own original Presidential legacy watch. Take home a treasured piece of Americana today. If you are unfamiliar with how this watch operates please inquire and I will be happy to provide setting instructions.

             I've tried my best to highlight the condition of this piece with the description as well as photos under a variety of light sources but please read the description and browse the photos to determine for yourself if this is the right watch for you. As a disclaimer for anyone unfamiliar with vintage timepieces I feel the need to also point out that even if gaskets have been replaced that any vintage antique watch should avoid contact with water no matter what the case says. Water tightness cannot be guaranteed after so many years and this must be stated. Any questions feel free to ask. Payment must be made within 24 hours of end of auction and no international shipping. Thanks for looking and check out our other great auctions.