~ Vintage Gents Tugaris Wrist Watch ~
A waterproof wristwatch by Swiss watchmakers Tugaris.
The watch case/bezel and crown are made of stainless steel.
The watch has a soft champagne coloured dial with gold quarterly numerals, batons and hands.
The dial reads ‘TUGARIS 17 JEWELS, ANTIMAGNETIC’ and beneath the hands ‘MONOREX SHOCK PROTECTION’ and “SWISS MADE”.
The case-back repeats this information as well as the word “WATERPROOF” and has a model number 314 . This number can also be found inscribed on the mechanism.
The watch comes on a stainless steel elasticated strap that is not original to the watch.
~ Dimensions ~
The dial has a diameter 1.25 inches (3 cm).
The distance from strap lug to strap lug gives the watch length of 1.6 inches (4 cm).
With its strap it weighs 55g.
~ Condition ~
The watch is in good working order and wearable condition, but the crystal has a few tiny scratches that cast tiny shadows on the dial.
There are one or two scratches to the strap lugs and back cover.
Brand:
Tugaris: A lesser-known vintage watch brand, likely Swiss-made, known for producing elegant and functional wristwatches during the mid-20th century. The brand catered to individuals seeking quality timepieces at an affordable price.
Movement:
Type: Manual wind or automatic, depending on the specific model.
Jewels: Typically features a jeweled movement (15–25 jewels), which reduces friction and enhances durability.
Origin: Likely Swiss-made, as Tugaris watches were often equipped with reliable Swiss movements.
Case:
Material: Stainless steel, gold-plated, or chrome-plated, depending on the model.
Shape: Round or slightly rectangular, reflecting classic mid-century styling.
Size: Typically 33–36 mm in diameter, standard for men’s watches of the era.
Case Back: Screw-down or snap-on, often engraved with the Tugaris name or logo.
Dial:
Design:
Clean and straightforward, with a focus on readability.
Markers: Applied baton or Arabic numerals, sometimes with luminous dots or accents.
Hands: Slim, polished hands with potential luminous inserts for visibility in low light.
Color: Dials were commonly white, champagne, or silver-toned.
Sub-Dials: Some models may feature small seconds at 6 o’clock or other complications.
Crystal:
Material: Acrylic or mineral glass, providing moderate scratch resistance.
Bracelet/Strap:
Material: Leather strap or metal bracelet, often matching the case material.
Style: Classic and understated, designed for both casual and formal wear.
Water Resistance:
Likely minimal (e.g., splash-resistant), as water resistance was not a primary focus for many vintage watches.
Historical Context:
Era:
Tugaris watches were likely produced during the 1940s–1960s, a period when Swiss watchmaking dominated the global market.
Wristwatches became essential accessories for men, blending functionality with style.
Design Trends:
The clean, minimalist designs of Tugaris watches reflect the mid-century aesthetic, focusing on practicality and elegance.
The use of reliable Swiss movements ensured accuracy and durability, appealing to a broad audience.
Market Position:
Tugaris positioned itself as an affordable yet quality brand, competing with other mid-tier Swiss watchmakers.
