Key Features
This Secundus is about the earliest iteration of the Secundus line from West End Watch Co., and also happens to be one of the first wristwatches to exist. Around 1905-1914, during the First World War, timekeeping was largely a function of pocket watches and clock, but this was not practical for the field soldier so innovation transpired in the wristwatch. This model has some primitive wire lugs crudely built into what is effectively a miniature pocket watch, to allow it to be mounted to a strap. Despite being a little over 100 years old, we’re lucky that our Secundus is still a reliable timekeeper and runs perfectly.
Engraved on the caseback is a ‘J.Bond’ signature, beautifully filigreed and with a slight patina. Though we don’t know for certain, we can imagine who that might be! Indeed, there is a tangential connection to James Bond with West End Watches, from their official website:
“The famous Swiss lady explorer [Ella Maillart] realises a daring crossing of China together with the journalist Peter Fleming, the eldest brother James Bond’ author Ian Fleming. She mentions the presence of West End watches in her successful book «Forbidden Journey». (sic)”
About the West End Watch Co.
The West End Watch Co Bombay-Calcutta was founded in 1886 by Arnold Amstutz and Constant Droz. The name is inspired by The West End district of London, however the company’s primary focus was the distribution of their watches overseas to the Indian and Middle Eastern markets. The brand has an impressive history spanning 120 years, producing the first waterproof pocket watch in 1886, and providing British and Indian armed forces with West End Watch Co watches during the First World War. The company still exists and produces watches to this day.
Servicing and Guarantee
This timepiece has been serviced with full disassembly. There is a 12-month guarantee, subject to the usage and care guidelines. The watch comes with a new, black leather 21mm bund strap.
Overview
Case and Strap
- Original pocket watch-esque nickel case
- Large winding crown
- Snap-off caseback signed ‘J.Bond’
- Mineral crystal
- 21mm black leather bund strap
Dimensions:
- Width w/o crown: 31.5mm
- Width w/ crown: 35mm
- Full height: 34.5mm
- Thickness: 11.5mm
- Strap width: 21mm
Dial and Hands
- White enamel dial
- Black arabic numerals
- Seconds subdial
- Blued cathedral minute hand
- Black cathedral hour hand
- Signed ‘West End Watch Co.’ below 12 position
Movement
- Unknown, Swiss-made 15 jewel lever movement.
Testing Results
- Testing duration: week cyclic test.
- Average timekeeping range: sec/day.
Servicing and Guarantee
- Fully serviced.
- Mechanics in full working order.
- 12-month guarantee.
- Guarantee Terms and Conditions.
Links and Resources:
Official Website Brand History.
