.png)
.svg)
A Pocket-Sized Art Deco Trick.
Travel clocks in the 1930s served more than just tools—they were companions for the well-dressed and well-timed. And while most of them opened like a book or a matchbox, this one clearly had a better idea.
The 1930 Zenith “Crescent” travel watch isn’t shy about doing things differently. Rather than a standard pull out or flat-fold, its 0.925 silver case opens in a satisfying arc—like a croissant unfolding or a quiet nod to the early days of modern design. Fitted with a curved hinge and a snap closure, the watch is clever, elegant, and rarely seen. It speaks to an era when even the smallest object had the license to be well thought-out.
On the outside, the silver case is engraved with alternating fine and thick linear patterns—simple, directional, and quietly stylish. Flip it over and the case back is hallmarked with the Swiss bear hallmark and the letter “L,” placing its silver assay in Le Locle, a small town with a large footprint in Swiss watchmaking. It's also signed “Brevet” with the Swiss Federal Cross—a mark that indicates a granted patent. No number here, but the design says plenty on its own.
A looped extension on the side of the case suggests this wasn’t just a desk item. Likely worn around the neck or fastened to clothing, it was built for travel—easily accessible, light in the pocket, and a bit of a conversation piece on the train platform. And while we’re long past the golden age of railway timetables, the idea of a beautiful, compact timekeeper clipped to a coat feels—strangely—relevant again.
The dial is all charm. Creamed over with age, but clean, clear, and classically styled with Breguet numerals in warm gold. The outer track is a series of matching circular markers, delicately placed. The Zenith logo remains sharp in black, and the gold-tone hands catch just enough light to remain legible but never loud. A sub-seconds dial, tucked neatly between the 5 and 7 markers, rounds out the composition. Painted crisply, with no signs of overuse.
Power comes from a Zenith manual movement, and true to the thoughtfulness of the case, the winding crown is discreetly recessed—no awkward protrusion or design disruption.
As far as travel watches go, this one doesn’t need to announce itself. It just curves out, tells the time, and reminds you that style is often in the smallest hinge.
The watch is in good condition for its age with all parts functional.
Case exterior shows light wear with minor dents and scratches; the engraved pattern masks most surface marks. The case remains unpolished. The side loop extension has slight wiggle but is intact and functional. The crescent-style opening mechanism shows signs of age but still opens smoothly and snaps shut securely.
Caseback hallmarks and engravings are still visible and present.
The dial has aged evenly to a warm cream tone with visible wear. Gold Breguet numerals and matching hands retain their luster with light oxidation. The Zenith logo is crisp and legible.
The crystal is clear with no cracks, scuffs or chips.
The manual movement has been recently serviced by a watchmaker and is running well, keeping accurate time.
We are here to be your trusted source of romantic vintage watches. We stand behind the products we curate with a 100% authenticity guarantee, a 1 year warranty and a 3-day return policy to ensure you are completely satisfied with your purchase.
.png)
