Vintage LESSA 1950s German Mechanical Watch PUW 60 17 Jewels Gold-Plated Case

Vintage LESSA – 1950s German Mechanical Watch – PUW 60 – 17 Jewels – Gold-Plated Case
A remarkable vintage German wristwatch from the 1950s, bringing together the craftsmanship of three watchmaking companies from Pforzheim, one of Germany's most important centres of watch production. The LESSA brand belonged to Gebrüder Hummel, while the excellent 17-jewel PUW 60 movement was manufactured by Pforzheimer Uhren-Rohwerke, a respected German movement manufacturer established in 1932. Introduced in 1952, the PUW 60 was a well-engineered and reliable calibre, featuring a traditional lever escapement, screw balance and directly driven central seconds hand. Interestingly, the PUW 60 belonged to a family of movements whose precision and engineering were highly regarded, with certain versions achieving chronometer-level performance. Although this particular watch is not a certified chronometer, it shares the same distinguished mechanical heritage. The gold-plated case was produced by Richard Pfisterer, another Pforzheim manufacturer, whose distinctive RP hallmark can be found inside the case back. Interestingly, the movement also carries the LESSA signature beneath the dial. The original case, dial and movement form a beautifully preserved, authentic and complete period watch, representing the quality and character of post-war German watchmaking.
Technical details:
• Brand: LESSA – Gebrüder Hummel, Germany
• Estimated production: late 1950s to early 1960s
• Movement: German PUW calibre 60
• 17 jewels
• Manual winding
• Frequency: 18,000 vibrations per hour
• Shock-protected movement
• Central seconds hand
• Gold-plated case by Richard Pfisterer, Pforzheim
• Stainless steel case back
• Case diameter: approximately 33 mm, excluding the crown
• Original champagne-coloured dial with beautiful concentric detailing and applied hour markers
• Original crystal
• New genuine leather strap
Condition and restoration:
The watch is in very good vintage condition, with its original character carefully preserved. The mechanical movement has been thoroughly cleaned and lubricated. It is in good mechanical condition, running smoothly and keeping good time. Following thorough cleaning, lubrication and regulation, the movement has demonstrated excellent performance on a timegrapher. At full wind, it showed a rate of just +2 seconds per day and a healthy balance amplitude of 273° in the photographed position. Measurements in different positions ranged from approximately −4 to +13 seconds per day — an impressive result for a mechanical watch of this age.
Please note that these are instantaneous timegrapher readings rather than a guarantee of daily accuracy, which may vary slightly during normal use.
The case has been ultrasonically cleaned, and the original crystal has been carefully polished to restore its clarity while preserving its authenticity. The beautifully detailed original dial remains one of the most attractive features of this watch, with its distinctive concentric pattern, elegant applied hour markers and unusual double marker at 12 o'clock.
A new genuine leather strap completes the watch, complementing its warm gold-plated case and classic appearance.
A watch with exceptional character
This is a truly remarkable vintage watch with an unmistakable character and presence. Even from a distance, it is immediately apparent that this is no ordinary timepiece, but something special from a bygone era. Its age, elegance and distinctive appearance give it a charm that is increasingly difficult to find in modern watches.
Photographs simply cannot capture its true beauty and character — it is far more impressive when seen in person. A wonderful opportunity to own an authentic piece of German watchmaking history, carefully restored and ready to be enjoyed for many more years.
Please note: Due to its age, water resistance cannot be guaranteed.
Collection or insured registered postage available - e10 in Ireland