H.Y. Moser Esculape “Dead Seconds” Watch

Description

This is an extremely rare “dead seconds” Saltofix watch, made by H.Y. Moser, circa 1950s. This watch was first issued in 1955, and the caliber was made by ChŽzard, a subsidiary of Ebauches SA.

As Hodinkee explains, “dead seconds indicate the second with discrete jumps between them. This is contrary to the majority of mechanical watches where the second hand moves somewhat smoothly between the seconds. While the functionality seems simple, it is complex mechanically. The second hand usually moves with each vibration of the balance wheel, which would be 5 times per second for a watch running at 18,000 vibrations per hour. The dead-seconds complication requires extra mechanics to slow that rate down to once per second for display on the dial.”

The common application for this watch was often for use by doctors, in order to accurately take someone’s pulse, or time a medical event with greater accuracy.

The watch offered today is in great vintage condition. The case appears unpolished, and features thick lugs and clear, faceted bevels. The dial shows light wear consistent with age and use, but is very nice, and has a lovely “honeycomb” outer-perimeter.