Collectible! Circa 1960s Waltham HT196 5N1 Tank Ladies 17J Mechanical Watch (OH)

Make: Waltham
Type: Mechanical
Model: Ladies Tank Brown Sunburst Dial  
Year of Production: Circa 1960s - 1970s
Movement: HT-196 / 5N1
BPH: 21,600
Number of Jewels: 17
Hand and Dial: 3D Baton Indices and Hands
Width: 16mm
Lug to Lug Height: 25mm
Thickness: 8mm
Lug Width: 13mm
Strap: Waltham Signed SS Bracelet with Clasp
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

Founded in 1850 by Aaron Dennison, Edward Howard, and David Davis in Waltham, Massachusetts, it was the first company to produce watches on an assembly line, revolutionizing the watchmaking industry thus earning a strong reputation for their quality and precision, and on-time delivery.

Throughout the late 19th century, Waltham expanded its operations and became one of the leading watchmakers in the United States.

Waltham also played a significant role in supplying watches to the military during both World Wars, further solidifying its reputation for reliability and precision timepieces.

Waltham watches gained popularity not only in the USA but also internationally, establishing the brand as a symbol of American craftsmanship. However, like many watch companies, Waltham faced challenges during the 20th century, including increased competition and changes in consumer preferences.

The company adapted to these challenges by diversifying its product range and exploring new markets; yet, sales began to decline due to the quartz revolution.

The Waltham brand was acquired by various companies circa 1957, and production of Waltham watches shifted to different parts of the world.

Here we have a highly sort-after circa 1960s overhauled Lady Tank Cal HT-196 / 5N1 in excellent condition. 

A good and thorough clean-up revealed a beautifully preserved Brown Sunburst Dial, Silver Baton Indices and Hands.

Its classy and stylish tank shaped case was buffed as best as possible without compromising its shape and lines albeit a few minor scratches that are barely noticeable. The original crystal was buffed and is in excellent condition albeit miniscule scratches are present.

The crown is located at the traditional 3H position and is easily accessible. The quick time-set is adjusted via the traditional method of uncorking the crown and turning the crown accordingly.

The Caliber HT-196 5N1 movement was carefully stripped and meticulously cleaned via ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled, and calibrated on 25 April 2024. In short, it was given an overhaul and should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby giving the owner peace of mind.

Equipped with the high grade and highly prized Swiss Made Cal HT-196 movement made from stainless steel, it has an 17 Jewels and operate at 21,600 BPH. The time-grapher, after hours of calibration, shows stunning readings of -10 seconds every 24 hours and amplitude of 246 with a relatively straight line! Such readings are exceptional even by brand new modern automatic watch standards whereby the accepted tolerance is -20 to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, the meticulous care provided over the years, and expert calibration. 

The case width and height are approximately 16mm (w/o crown) and 25mm respectively. The lug width is 13mm and the bracelet can accommodate wrists up to 18cm.

The timepiece comes with a vintage Waltham Signed SS Bracelet with clasp. 

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Waltham components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket or modified parts.

Due to its age, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested.

The pictures provided shows the watch in superb condition. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear + tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. A brand new EVA pouch is provided.

This extremely rare watch will make a beautiful birthday present for that special someone, and its value will appreciate over time.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life, and should be cherished and preserved for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

Because it is extremely rare, this 17J Waltham Caliber HT-196 movement is not easily found on auction and online sites.

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 200.00 to S$ 250.00 for an overhaul, and an estimated S$ 100.00 to calibrate, and S$ 40.00 to clean and buff the case - these costs do not apply when purchasing this timepiece. So, if anyone was to sell such a timepiece at a low price yet claim that it has been serviced, one has to ask what kind of servicing was conducted, if any.

This is a highly sort-after Waltham Lady Tank Cal HT-196 with Brown Sunburst Dial in excellent condition; so, be unique and wear something that is almost impossible to source.