Georges Eberhard, following in his father's watch craftsman footsteps, founded Eberhard & Co.
In 1894, the house created a pocket watch with an innovative time-setting system that they patented in order to protect their technology. By 1907 the watchmakers was one of the largest in Switzerland. Their headquarters became a prominent feature of the rue Leopold Robert, La Chaux-de-Fonds' hub for watchmakers. The Beaux Arts style building with a eagle sculpture that towers above the rue remains one of La Chaux-de-Fonds' most recognisable landmarks.
In 1919, Eberhard & Co. launched their first wrist chronograph - a watch combined with a stopwatch. Two years later, the company patented the Calotte Patrouille, a design which protected mechanisms from being destructed by dust and damp.
Production was halted during both World Wars. However, in 1947, Eberhard & Co. was back with style as they created their first woman's watch.
The brand has now become synonymous with large watches, known as the Grande Taille (Super Size) collection. In 2007, Eberhard & Co. celebrated 120 years of production with the Chronographe 120ème anniversaire timepiece.
The piece featured will be on sale at James Auctioneers until 26th February, 2017. Check out the full catalogue here.