A vintage watch love story
These Gruen watches were built in Cincinatti. The company existed from 1894 - 1958.
This pair belonged to my wife's grandparents - they gave them to each other in December 1938 to celebrate their birthdays.
His 'Curvex' model was introduced in 1935 and was the first watch to feature a curved shape and apparently a curved movement.
Early advertisements found online indicate that Gruen intended for the watch to be worn on the inside of the forearm, essentially where one would measure their pulse. It's on an expansion bracelet made of sterling silver and some gold-tone.
Her watch features a mechanism to extend or shorten the bracelet after it's clasped.
Unfortunately neither of them are running, though the hands move easily when in the setting position.
No idea what the cost would be to have two mechanical movements serviced, but for now the plan is to leave them. Happy to hear if anyone has further info re: Gruen or reconditioning.
Thanks!
I work in the Auto industry, I'm a musician for fun, and I dig watches.
Wow! What an amazing story, and two great little watches. Amazing cosmetic condition. Beautiful.
I can’t offer an experience or advice on mechanical restoration, other than you should definitely have them repaired! Don’t polish or anything, but get the movements running and wear them with your wife.
Fear of service costs is what keeps watches in drawers and dressers and not being worn. Gruen was a quality watch with a quality Swiss movement. Where I am I can get one fully serviced for about $200USD. One could expect to pay $300USD. When you get the watch serviced you may only be at a break even point for the men's watch in terms of value. But, if your intent is not to sell it the watch will perform for many years.
The women's watch may be more expensive to repair with less return. We make certain decisions for sentimental reasons, not financial ones.
They look to be in good shape externally. I’d bet servicing could be easily accomplished.