1920s Geneva Watch Company Trench-Style Wristwatch Rolled Gold Case, 15 Jewels

Trench-style watches emerged in the early 20th century as a direct response to the changing demands of modern warfare. Prior to World War I, pocket watches were the standard timekeeping devices for men, while wristwatches were considered primarily feminine accessories. However, the static nature of pocket watches proved impractical on the battlefield, where soldiers needed quick, hands-free access to the time during coordinated military operations.

The solution was the trench watch: a modified pocket watch adapted with wire lugs to accommodate a strap, worn on the wrist for immediate visibility. These early wristwatches featured robust cases, often with shrapnel guards or grille covers, luminous dials for low-light readability, and large crowns that could be manipulated even while wearing gloves. By the end of the war, the wristwatch had firmly established itself as a practical and masculine tool, leading to its widespread adoption in civilian life.

What’s on offer

A true artifact of early 20th-century horology, this trench-style wristwatch, likely manufactured by the Geneva Watch Company circa the 1920s, exemplifies the transitional design from military function to civilian elegance. Encased in rolled gold, this piece carries the refined character of its era while preserving many hallmarks of its wartime predecessors.

The watch features a classic white enamel dial with bold black Arabic numerals, designed for clarity and legibility. The name J. Cresswell Wakefield – which has been partially scratched off – is printed on the dialpossibly an outfitters store name.

Housed within a hinged case back, the Swiss-made 15-jewel mechanical movement is a testament to reliable early 20th-century engineering. The watch winds smoothly and keeps time within a reasonable range, reflecting both the quality of the movement and its well-preserved condition.

Two strap options are included: a black and a brown genuine leather adjustable strap, both of which complement the warm tone of the gold case and maintain the watch’s vintage aesthetic.

This piece remains in very good condition for its age, with the movement running and the dial remarkably well-preserved, showing crisp numerals and clean enamel. There is some minor cosmetic wear, including light discolouration and faint scratches on the case back, as well as a small area of damage on the side of the caseall consistent with careful use and nearly a century of age. None of these marks affect the function or integrity of the watch, and they contribute to the authentic character of a genuine 1920s wristwatch.

This is a fine example of a post-WWI trench watch, blending utilitarian design with the decorative sensibilities of the 1920s. For collectors and vintage watch enthusiasts, it offers a rare opportunity to own a Swiss-made, early wristwatch that bridges historical significance with enduring craftsmanship.

NB: This watch is offered for sale as seen, as the watches service history is unknown and we are selling it on behalf of a watch collector’s family who have asked us to help sell an entire collection. As there are quite a few watches to dispose of, the clients do not wish to spend unnecessary money on servicing each watch before its sold so we have priced the watches to reflect it being sold un-serviced and without a warranty but it can be arranged with our watchmaker at an additional cost if you wish. Once you have made the purchase please add a note when placing it in your basket and we will contact you to discuss this. Once serviced the watch will be given a 12-month warranty.