Leonidas Alarm

Founded in 1841 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, Leonidas was a watchmaking company known for its production of chronographs and tool watches. In 1964, the brand merged with Édouard Heuer, forming Heuer-Leonidas, which would later become TAG Heuer in 1985. Among the brand’s most notable creations were military watches and complicated timepieces, including this stunning Leonidas Alarm in 18K gold, dating from the mid-1950s. This model is particularly rare and is likely the first yellow gold version to surface on the market.

This Leonidas Alarm from the 1950s features a 35mm solid 18K gold case, an ideal size for a refined and timeless look. Its untouched white dial displays Arabic numerals, enhancing its vintage charm. The dauphine hands and central seconds hand complete the elegant design, while a red and green alarm indicator at 9 o’clock signals whether the alarm is active. The watch is powered by the Venus 230 manual-winding movement, protected by a screwed-down case back.

This Leonidas Alarm is in excellent overall condition for a nearly 70-year-old watch. Its gold case has a small, barely visible ding, but remains well-preserved, with sharp edges. The untouched dial has retained its original luminous material. Additionally, the watch has just been serviced, ensuring optimal performance. As the case back engraving indicates, it was presented to a dedicated employee after 25 years of service—a well-deserved reward, but also an amusing choice: an alarm watch for a loyal worker. Perhaps they were already remarkably punctual, or maybe their boss hoped this watch would ensure they never ran late again! Either way, this piece is a true piece of horological history and a fantastic acquisition for any serious collector.