1960s Gallet MultiChron 45M

Why This Watch Matters

This sharp chronograph shows why vintage Gallet are now so coveted. And it comes with enigmatic engravings to the caseback that might indicate a military past.

The Full Story

The MultiChron is among the most iconic chronographs, and was produced by Gallet for several decades. While the early examples featured a 30-minute register, the 45M featured a 45-minute register (a 12-hr variant also existed with an hour counter above 6 o’clock). This chrono boasts the outstanding legibility that Gallet mastered and has become known for, and the font used for the numerals indicates a 1960s production. The W/RC1-20 engravings on the caseback are likely to denote a military provenance, although nothing concrete can be found to substantiate that hunch. After all, Gallet had several of its watches serving in the military forces, either under its name or an alternative branding such as Precista. Overall, this is an attractive and legible vintage chronograph great for any occasion.

The Fine Print

Maker: Gallet
Model: MultiChron 45M
Reference: NA
Year: Circa 1960s
Case No: NA
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 35mm diameter; 13mm thickness
Sapphire Crystal: No
Lume: No
Caliber: Manual-wound chronograph caliber Valjoux 7733
Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Tan Herringbone Strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

While we might never know more about the past of this Gallet, the engravings on the caseback are sharp and so are the angles of its case, which shows that it was not overly polished, if ever. The silvered dial does not show any significant trace of aging, with very clean sub-registers. The no-lume handset is consistent with the painted numerals, and the shape matches the style from Gallet at the time. Lastly, the crown is unsigned and the plexi might be a replacement part.