Gallet Chronograph Watch - MultiChron 30 Clamshell Chronograph

Gallet MultiChron 30M

Introduced in 1914

The MultiChron 30, a high quality timer with 2 subsidiary registers and 30 minute recording capability, was the world's 1st true wrist-worn chronograph. The 30 also holds the distinction as the world’s first wrist chronograph to be housed in a “waterproof” case. Engineered in 1936 by Gallet watchmaker Philippe Weiss utilizing Schmitz Frères patent #189190A, the unique 2-part "Clamshell" compression case for the model 30 was designed to protect the delicate inner mechanism from the adverse conditions found on the field of battle. Due to the Clamshell's historic status and superb quality, it has become one of the most coveted timepieces among today's vintage watch and chronograph collectors.

The MultiChron 30M initially utilized Valjoux 13 and 14 ligne movements, followed by the Venus calibre 150 for later series. When Gallet began production of their own Excelsior Park chronograph movements with 45 minute recording capabilities, the model 30M was replaced in 1951 by the MultiChron 45M.

Model name: MultiChron 30M (1st series, Royal Air Force)

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: modified chronometer grade Valjoux 13 ligne

Case material: sterling silver

Case back: hinged

Dimensions: 35mm diameter

Bracelet: leather or military canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1914 - ?

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing

Notes: 30 min. recording, enamel dial, crown pusher, 1914 London hallmarked Gallet Case (some mvts marked Electa)

Valuation*

Sterling Silver: $10,000.00 - $12,000.00 (extremely rare)

14k Gold: n/a

18k Gold: n/a

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The world's first true wrist chronograph...

Model name: MultiChron 30M (single button, WWI U.S.A.)

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: modified chronometer grade Valjoux 22 (GHT)

Case material: .935 sterling silver

Case back: hinged, dual covers

Dimensions: 38.5mm

Bracelet: leather or military canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1914 - 1921

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing, aviation, racing

Notes: 30 min. recording, enamel dial, push button activation & reset (some movements marked Electa)

Valuation*

Sterling Silver: $10,000.00 - $12,000.00 (extremely rare)

14k Gold: $12,000.00 - $14,000.00 (extremely rare)

18k Gold: $15,000.00 - $18,000.00 (extremely rare)

Model name: MultiChron 30M (3nd series)

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: Venus 150

Case material: stainless steel

Case back: press on

Dimensions: 32mm diameter

Bracelet: leather or mil.spec. canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1933 - 1941

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing, sports & racing

Notes: 30 min. recording, olive pushers, tachometer, telemeter scales

Valuation*

Stainless Steel: $3,500.00 - $4,500.00 (rare)

14k Gold: n/a

18k Gold: n/a

Model name: MultiChron 30M "Clamshell"

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: Venus 150

Case material: stainless steel

Case back: 4 screw compression "Clamshell"

Dimensions: 34.2mm diameter

Bracelet: leather or mil.spec. canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1936 - 1951

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing, sports & racing, medical

Notes: 30 min. recording, world's 1st waterproof wrist chronograph, luminous numbers and hands

Valuation*

Stainless Steel: $7,000.00 - $8,000.00 (extra rare)

14k Gold: n/a

18k Gold: n/a

Model name: MultiChron 30M "Clamshell" (Military Version)

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: Venus 150

Case material: stainless steel

Case back: 4 screw compression "Clamshell"

Dimensions: 34.2mm diameter

Bracelet: leather or mil.spec. canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1936 - 1951

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing, sports & racing, medical

Notes: rare exotic black military dial w/ tachometer & telemeter scales, silver or rose gold hands and indications.

Valuation*

Stainless Steel: $8,500.00 - $9,500.00 (extra rare)

14k Gold: n/a

18k Gold: n/a

Model name: MultiChron 30M "Clamshell"

Reference #: n/a

Movement type: chronograph, manual wind

Calibre: Venus 150

Case material: stainless steel

Case back: 4 screw compression "Clamshell"

Dimensions: 34.2mm diameter

Bracelet: leather or mil.spec. canvas

Water resistance: n/a

Production years: 1942 - 1951

Serial numbers: n/a

Application: artillery timing, sports & racing, medical

Notes: 30 min. recording, tachometer, telemeter scales

Canadian version, retailed through Eaton's Canada

Valuation*

Stainless Steel: $5,500.00 - $6,500.00

14k Gold: n/a

18k Gold: n/a

Reprint of a 1939 Jewelers' Circular Keystone advertisement for the Gallet MultiChron 30, the world's first "waterproof" chronograph.

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click to enlarge

1939 Jewelers' Circular Keystone advertisement for the Gallet MultiChron 30M CLAMSHELL, the world's first "waterproof" chronograph

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* Valuations for timepieces listed on Gallet World are based on an average of fair market prices, either quoted or realized in retail venues, auctions, and NAWCC national and regional shows. Values displayed are for complete timepieces in good working condition with original dials and components.