My first vintage gamble on ebay
I saw this for a decent price. This watch has two things I’ve been wanting: made in germany(west) and a 6oclock day date. The description says it’s running but I’m sure it needs a service. I just didn’t want to let it get away. I should add that while trying to research the brand I can’t find any examples like this one anywhere else. Either that’s a good thing or bad thing.
Does anybody else have any experience on Helbros?
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Anthony
I’ve got problems. Like which watch am I gonna wear today?
Paragould, AR, USA
Member since
Last active: 4 days ago
8.00” / 20.32 cm
It looks great!
These were decent watches back in the day, below the top brands but above let's say Timex. They were German made and quite robust.
Unfortunately, Helbros did not survive the quartz crisis.
I like that - the day date at 6 isn't something I've seen before.
I like that - the day date at 6 isn't something I've seen before.
I know! More watches should do this. There are a few Seikos and citizens that put the days under the 12 position.
This looks to be a mid-sixties model, after the brand had been acquired by Elgin. The name was sold after Elgin's bankruptcy and you still see them branded through the 1970's. It is probably a PUW movement. I have seen that same date/day at six in a few 1960's watches. Mostly, Helbros put them at the nine and three sides of the pinion.
William Helbein emigrated from the Russian Empire and founded his company in New York before the WWI. It is unclear if he had a brother, none was mentioned in his obituary. Helbros was a very successful assembleur for 50 years.
I have bought and sold a few Helbros. There are some really nice ones out there (like yours).
This looks to be a mid-sixties model, after the brand had been acquired by Elgin. The name was sold after Elgin's bankruptcy and you still see them branded through the 1970's. It is probably a PUW movement. I have seen that same date/day at six in a few 1960's watches. Mostly, Helbros put them at the nine and three sides of the pinion.
William Helbein emigrated from the Russian Empire and founded his company in New York before the WWI. It is unclear if he had a brother, none was mentioned in his obituary. Helbros was a very successful assembleur for 50 years.
I have bought and sold a few Helbros. There are some really nice ones out there (like yours).
Thank you so much! I really can’t wait. I just ordered a tube of poly watch to prepare. :)