Tropical 1969 Dodane 'Type 21' French Air Force Flyback Chronograph "2nd Generation"

In 1954, when the French Ministry of Defense required a pilot's chronograph suited for the specific needs of the Air Force built to their exacting specifications—black dial, 38mm case, chronograph with flyback complication—there were several watch brands that answered the call, including Breguet. Those watches became known as the Type 20.

But when the MOD released new specifications that called a more robust and durable version of the Type 20, there was only one brand that rose to the occasion. That brand was Dodane, and the watch was the Type 21, a pilot's watch built to withstand just about anything.

This particular Type 21 is an incredible example, featuring an incredibly well-preserved case and a tropical dial that is taking on a red hue around the outer edges. The case back also features a few instances of the letters 'FG' followed by three sets of two numerals. This pertains to when the watch needed to be next serviced (the FG was a French abbreviation for “Fin de Garantie,” meaning "end of guarantee").

This is a fantastic piece with a stellar military legacy and something you won't likely see on any other wrists out there.

SPECS

Stock # DDTYP21FAF
Brand Dodane
Style Military Flyback Chronograph
Model Type 21
Serial 401XXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Tropical
Millimeters 38
Strap 2pc Leather Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The exceptionally well-preserved and angular case exhibits no notable evidence of previous polishing and honest wear from use, with the original case design geometry still very intact and present to the naked eye. The original coin-edge rotating bezel is in remarkable condition overall, with the original black enamel almost entirely intact. The case features its original pump pushers and unsigned crown. The case back retains all of its original factory markings along with extensive F.G. or “Fin de Garantie” markings, which were used by watchmakers to mark the next recommended service interval for the watch. The watch will come supplied on a two-piece handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The matte black dial is in amazing vintage condition, featuring a red or oxblood-colored tropical patina throughout, though most vibrant at the outer portion of the dial. The tritium Arabic numerals have achieved a dark khaki-colored patina with some darker spots from age which is common. The original tritium handset has aged to a slightly lighter cream than the numerals, under UV light inspection there is no degradation present, including the lumed chronograph hand.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time, backed by our 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.

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