In reply to Nice Conqueror. So if it by William Smith
[quote=William Smith]
Nice Conqueror. So if it had the enamel corners would it be the Cyrano? Note the "F" on the bezel side picture above... I don't remember if we discussed similar markings or not...
[/quote]
The hands looks like the advert of Cyrano. It is possible that the enamel is gone in time or somebody polished it?
What means the F on the case side ?
In reply to William Smith wrote: Nice by Constantin
I don't know what the F means.... hopefully someone else may have an idea?
I'm guessing that the area of the Cyrano where there was enameling was slightly indented, so as to allow a place for the enamel to "pool" when applied.
Also, the area between the dial and engraving has a slight margin at 3pm/9pm positions in subject watch, while both Cyrano and Conqueror ads seem to have the engraving "butting up" to the dial edge at 3pm/9pm positions. The engraving in the ads has a small "unengraved" area at "corners", while sujbect watch has this bezel engraving continuing uninterupted around entire outer margin of bezel. ...and the lugs of subject watch may be a little more "pointed or narrow" at the outer end. Artist rendition perhaps?
based on possible slight lug differences, continuous bezel margin engraving, and proximity of engraving to dial at 3pm/6pm areas, two ticks tentative for Conqueror.
Do ya think these slight differences are artist rendition issues in the ad(s)? Could such subtle differences (if they even exist) constitute a different model name?
Maybe the "F" is for "filled", as in gold filled. A simple way for someone who can't or is not allowed to open up a watch case to tell the difference between case composition?
The engraving is unusual that it is continuous, but it is the same pattern used on the Trojan/Conqueror.
I can see where you are going with this one Will, and I have to say I agree.
Narrow lugs, cathedral hands and joined engraving all point to a Cyrano that has been polished and the "enamel" removed. Is this true enamel, or painted on stuff, not baked on? I have done enamelling, and I think the heat required to melt glass powder would damage gold plate. Painted enamel would be easy to over-polish, especially over 84 years.
Here are the two Cyrano examples in the db, the similarities to the subject are unmistakeable.
http://www.mybulova.com/watches/1930-cyrano-6067
http://www.mybulova.com/watches/1930-cyrano-6377
Changing my mind on the ID, Cyrano. One tick for Conqueror.
Great spot Will, and such finesse on the guidance. Been on a "Human Resources" course? :-D
Bobee, you are correct the F is for filled. You will also see other markings such as RG For rolled gold. I had the same question a few years back and my local watch maker was very quick to point out several examples to substantiate the claim right on my watches! :-)