1940s Jardur Bezelmeter Valjoux Cal. 71

Founded in 1937 by pilot and airplane enthusiast Samuel Klepper, the Jardur Import Company was an American brand based in New York City that produced precision-made aviation instruments. In addition to selling flight calculators, protractors, and navigation plotters, the brand’s signature product was the Jardur Bezelmeter Aviation Chronograph.

Using Swiss-made cases and movements, the Jardur Bezelmeter chronographs were specifically designed for pilots and included a number of features intended to aid in navigation and flying procedures. The rotating 12-hour countdown bezel was intended to give a rough approximation of flight duration, while its red ‘Degreemeter’ scale was specifically designed to help pilots complete standard-rate aviation turns. Purpose-built and created to be a cockpit instrument for the wrist, the Jardur Bezeltimer was an efficient aviation tool and was a favorite among many pilots of the era.

Stock #		JDRBM71-2
Brand		Jardur
Style		Bezelmeter
Model		N/A
Serial		35XXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		Glossy Black
Millimeters		36.5
Bracelet		2pc Handmade Leather Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The impressive case doesn't exhibit signs of over-polishing and features strong factory proportions and finishes with crisp lug holes. The original and rare "Pac-Man" style rotating bezel is in exceptional condition, showing minimal signs of use and with the black enameling fully intact. The case retains its original unsigned crown and large pump pushers. The case back retains the factory serial in deep and crisp condition, there are some gentle tool marks present on the case back. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original black gilt dial is beautifully preserved and has achieved an even matte, slightly tropical patina throughout. The gilt printing remains in excellent condition, the red-gilt print displays some minor fading which is typical for this model. The original radium lume plots have aged to a dark beige color and display some gentle degradation but remain mostly intact throughout. The original cathedral-style white hands are in excellent condition, under UV light inspection the hour hand features a subtle lume repair and otherwise retains its original lume, the minute hand remains fully intact.