Why This Watch Matters

We love this chronograph from Royce for its no-lume "reverse panda” dial in a 37mm case.

The Full Story

Royce was owned by Eska Watch Company, and was basically the export brand for them. Silvan Kocher started Eska in 1918 in Grenchen, Switzerland. This reference 13-19 features a Landeron 248 movement, in which the top pusher activates the chronograph while the bottom pusher stops and resets. This is less common compared to other chronographs where the top pusher starts and stops the chronograph function. This Royce offers a lot of value with its no-lume black dial with white registers, all in a fairly large 37mm screw-back case. This watch features some cool details like the “R” applied logo on the dial, coat-of-arms looking design on the case back, and the “R” signed crown. It is also interesting to point out that the inside caseback is signed “S. KOCHER,” the name of the founder of Eska. All in all, this Royce is a great-looking chronograph with classic styling at a fraction of the price of other chronographs from this time period.

The Fine Print

Maker: Royce 
Model: Chronograph 
Reference: 13-19
Year: 1960s
Case No: N/A
Material: Stainless steel 
Dimensions: 37mm diameter; 12mm thickness 
Crystal: Plexiglass 
Lume: No 
Caliber: Manual-winding Landeron 248 
Bracelet/Strap:
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No 

What we Love and What You Should Know

This Royce is in nice condition. The case is strong and possibly unpolished. The case has scratches throughout. The dial has developed a light patina. The crystal has some scratches. The bottom pusher shows some wear.