Unitron 17-Jewel Incabloc Swiss-Made Hunter Case Watch
Jewelry (Pocket Watch) · Unitron (Unitra), a Swiss-based assembly brand utilizing standardized Swiss movements during the mid-20th century.
Pattern: Hunter Case (Savonnette) Decorative Traditional style; featuring a front cover hinged at 9 o'clock.
Type
Jewelry (Pocket Watch)
Maker
Unitron (Unitra), a Swiss-based assembly brand utilizing standardized Swiss movements during the mid-20th century.
Material
Likely Yellow Gold-Filled or Gold Plate over a base metal; the visible wear on the interior cover indicates a base metal substrate rather than solid 14k or 18k gold.
Dimensions
Standard size 12 or 16 pocket watch; approximately 45-50mm in diameter; estimated weight of 80-100 grams including the movement.
Description
A classic Swiss-made hunter case pocket watch by Unitron, featuring a highly decorated gold-toned case and a traditional white dial with bold black Arabic numerals and red 24-hour markers. The inclusion of Incabloc indicates it was built for professional daily use.
Key Features
Incabloc shock protection system; 17-jewel mechanical movement; hunter-style protective cover; red 24-hour military time markers on the outer track.
Material & Composition
Likely Yellow Gold-Filled or Gold Plate over a base metal; the visible wear on the interior cover indicates a base metal substrate rather than solid 14k or 18k gold.
Finish & Decoration
Etched and chased floral/scrollwork exterior; the dial features a white enamel or lacquered finish with Arabic numerals and a railroad minute track; interior cover shows engine-turned perlage or circular graining.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Dial marked 'UNITRON', '17 JEWELS', 'INCABLOC', and 'SWISS MADE'. Case markings (not visible) likely include gold-fill warranty stamps or a serial number inside the back cover.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed and engine-turned case with a hinged spring-release cover; mechanical hand-wind movement with Incabloc shock protection system.
Functional Features
Hinged front cover, crown at 3 o'clock for winding/setting, sub-seconds dial at 6 o'clock, and shock-resistant escapement.
Handle & Grip Details
Knurled winding crown with a decorative textured bow (ring) for attachment to a watch chain or fob.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced mechanical movement with high-precision Swiss assembly; the case features machine-engraved patterns intended to mimic high-end hand-chasing.
Authentication Indicators
Proper alignment of Swiss branding; secondary 24-hour markers consistent with mid-century European market pieces; wear patterns on the hinges consistent with long-term use.
Origin & Manufacturing
Movement manufactured in Switzerland (likely Ebauches SA); casing may be Swiss or imported based on the assembly location of the Unitron brand.
Era & Period
Mid-Century / Post-War Era (c. 1950-1970); combines 19th-century 'Hunter' styling with modern shock-resistant technology.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965, identified by the use of 'Incabloc' shock protection and the specific typography of the dial.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition period where pocket watches were becoming ceremonial or nostalgic items as wristwatches took over the mainstream market.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant wear and brassing on the interior of the cover where the gold layer has thinned; minor tarnish and surface scratches; dial appears clean with no visible hairline cracks.
Value Estimate
$75 - $150 USD based on current market demand for mid-tier Swiss brands and the gold-plated (non-solid) status of the case.
Care & Maintenance
Do not over-wind; keep away from magnets and moisture; use a soft microfiber cloth for polishing; service the movement every 5-7 years for lubrication.
Similar Pieces
Waltham or Elgin gold-filled hunter cases (usually American-made movements); Tissot or Omega heritage pocket watches (higher luxury tier).
Interesting Facts
The 'Incabloc' system was a major selling point in the mid-1900s, as it allowed pocket watches to survive drops that would have previously snapped the balance staff.