French 18K yellow gold chronometre pocket watch Circa 1920

Gold open faced lever watch
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A fine French 18 carat yellow gold open faced pocket watch made by LIP in Besançon, circa 1920. It has a high quality mechanical lever movement. The white enamel dial shows bold black Arabic numerals for the primary hours, an inner 24 hour scale in red Arabic numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock, a chemin de fer (railway) minute track, steel spade hands, and the signature Chronometre LIP at the centre. The 18 carat yellow gold case back is decorated with an elegant linear engine turned pattern, featuring a central unengraved oval cartouche. The watch is wound via a fluted crown topped with a circular bow at 12 o’clock.
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Diameter: 45 mm
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Weight: 64.5 g
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Signed: LIP Chronométrè
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LIP (Besançon)
LIP is one of France’s most historic and iconic watch brands, founded in 1867 by Emmanuel Isaac Lipmann in Besançon. By the early 20th century, LIP had established itself as a leader in precision timekeeping, producing some of the first French chronometer certified movements. The brand was known for its innovative spirit and later produced watches for historical figures like Charles de Gaulle and Winston Churchill. Around 1920, LIP’s Chronometre line represented their highest mechanical standard, often winning awards for accuracy at international exhibitions.