Beautiful Antique Invar Pocket Watch, 18K Gold, Switzerland, c. 1900

Beautiful Antique Invar Pocket Watch, 18K Gold, Switzerland, circa 1900

This distinguished lepine style pocket watch was made in Switzerland around 1900 by the prestigious INVAR Watch Co., specifically for the historic Relojería Suiza of Córdoba, Spain. It is a refined piece crafted in solid 18K gold, as confirmed by the hallmarks clearly engraved inside the case. This watch was personalized for Hermann Piaget, nephew of founder Augusto Campicci, who took over the family business in Córdoba.

With a diameter of 44 mm and a weight of 56.9 grams, this timepiece stands out for its substantial presence and timeless elegance. The white enamel dial features classic Arabic numerals, a small seconds subdial at 6, and gold-toned pear-shaped hands. The dial is signed “Hermann Piaget, Relojería Suiza, Córdoba,” confirming its personalized commercial origin. At the number 3, there is a light hairline, a barely visible superficial crack that adds a touch of authenticity to its antique character.

The back cover is beautifully engraved with a detailed floral motif, typical of high-end Swiss cases from the turn of the century. The movement, visible in the images, is clean and in excellent working order. It is a caliber signed INVAR WATCH Co., with Breguet regulator and serial number 012683. The inner cover displays commemorative medal engravings and the 18K hallmark.

This watch is not just a technical object, but a testament to the horological history of Córdoba and a family of master watchmakers. It is ideal for serious collectors, lovers of traditional timepieces, or as a meaningful gift with historical value.

A charming piece, full of soul, history, and gold carved beauty.

Dimensions: 4.4 cm (1.73 in). Weight: 56.9 g.

History of Relojería Suiza, Hermann Piaget, Córdoba, Spain

The history of Relojería Joyería Suiza in Córdoba dates back to 1866, when Swiss-Italian Augusto Campicci, also known as Campiche, opened the first store in the old Plaza de las Tendillas. Having no direct descendants, he passed the business to his nephew Hermann Piaget Drox, who moved from Switzerland with his family to continue the horological tradition.

Hermann and his son remained in Córdoba even after the rest of the family returned to Switzerland. The son, also named Hermann, became friends with the famous writer Pío Baroja, who portrayed him in his novel La feria de los discretos under the character Pablo Springer.

Now located at 17 Claudio Marcelo Street, the shop has remained virtually unchanged since its foundation. Today it is run by the Velasco Pascual brothers, who carry on the trade with artisanal care and family heritage. Their tradition includes repairing antique mechanisms, crafting custom medals, insignias, and bespoke items in gold and silver.

The piece presented here, signed by INVAR and dedicated to Hermann Piaget, is a true fragment of that history. It represents not only the high-end Swiss watchmaking of the era, but also a family tradition that has endured for more than 150 years in the heart of Andalusia.