Collectible Henri Sandoz & Fils 17J Mechanical Watch (OH)

Make: Henri Sandoz & Fils
Type: Mechanical
Model: Classic
Year of Production: Circa 1957 to 1963
Movement: Sandoz
BPH: 18,000
Number of Jewels: 17
Hand and Dial: 3D Silver Arabic + Baton Indices with Silver Dauphine Hands
Width: 33mm
Lug to Lug Height: 40.4mm
Thickness: 9.5mm
Lug Width: 18mm
Strap: Brand-New Good-Quality Genuine Leather Strap with Silver Buckle
Pouch / Box: Brand-New EVA Type Zipper Pouch

The story of Henri Sandoz & Fils is deeply tied to one of the more influential—but often underappreciated Swiss watchmaking families of the Jura region.

The company traces back to Henri Frédéric Sandoz (1851–1913), a Swiss watchmaker from Le Locle who founded Henri Sandoz & Cie circa 1870.

In 1890, Sandoz partnered with the Schwob families and founded the Tavannes Watch Co. in Malleray. During this period watches were sold under multiple names, including Henri Sandoz & Fils, Cyma, and others.

Circa 1920 sees Henri’s son Hermann Sandoz joined the business, and the firm was formally renamed Henri Sandoz & Fils (“and Sons”).

During the 1930s to 1960s, Sandoz boomed and began producing 2,500 watches a day!  They began designing ultra slim watches, waterproof designs and even used an inhouse movement (HSF Series).

Like many Swiss brands, Henri Sandoz & Fils was hit by the Quartz Crisis. so, the original structure fragmented, and the Sandoz name was split into multiple unrelated companies such as
Sandoz Switzerland
Sandoz Hong Kong
Sandoz Singapore
Sandoz Spain

This is why modern “Sandoz” watches vary widely in quality and are not directly equivalent to the vintage Henri Sandoz & Fils timepieces.

Here we have an original Henri Sandoz & Fils in stunning condition. 

A good and thorough clean-up revealed a beautifully preserved silver sunburst dial, 3D Arabic & Baton Indices and Silver Dauphine Hands.

Its classy silver shaped case was buffed as best as possible without compromising its shape, lines albeit a few minor scratches that are barely noticeable. The original crystal was replaced with a hi-quality Japanese crystal.

The crown is located at the traditional 3H position and is easily accessible.

The watch was carefully stripped and meticulously cleaned via ultrasonic immersion, oiled, re-assembled, and calibrated on 29 December 2023. In short, it was given a full overhaul and should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby giving the owner peace of mind.

It is equipped with 17 Jewels and operate at 18,000 beats BPH. The time-grapher shows impressive readings of 0 seconds and amplitude of 275! Such readings are stunning 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 approx. 33mm (w/o crown) and 40.4mm respectively. The lug width is 18mm and the strap can accommodate wrists up to 20cm; hence, suitable for man and the modern woman.

The timepiece comes with a brand new good-quality genuine black strap with silver buckle.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Henri Sandoz 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 excellent 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 instead.

This one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone, and its value will appreciate over time.

Because it is extremely rare, this 17J Henri Sandoz is not easily found on auction and online sites in such stunning condition.

This is a super rare Henri Sandoz + Fils in superb condition; so, be unique and own a rare watch that is almost impossible to source in such fine condition or purchase it for that special someone.