Own the watch that woke up the White House. The Vulcain Cricket is one of the most historically significant timepieces of the 20th century. Renowned as the "Watch of Presidents," it was the first mechanical wristwatch with an alarm loud enough to actually wake its sleeper—a favorite of Truman, Eisenhower, and LBJ.
This late-1950s model is a rare find, featuring a sophisticated honeycomb chevron-textured dial and the iconic four-hand layout (Hours, Minutes, Seconds, and the Alarm Setter). Housed in a classic 34mm case with a stainless steel back, the watch uses a dual-barrel system—one for timekeeping and one for the alarm. When triggered, the mechanical "cricket" chirp is as crisp and unique as it was 70 years ago.
Key Features:
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Historic Pedigree: Known globally as the "Presidential" watch.
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Mechanical Alarm: The world's most elegant (and loudest) vintage alarm clock.
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Rare Dial: Sophisticated honeycomb chevron texture with applied Arabic numerals.
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Movement: 17-Jewel Swiss-made Caliber 120 manual wind.
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Strap: Fitted with a new black lizard-grain leather band.
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Personal History: Includes a period-correct commemorative engraving on the case back.
Important Note: This watch is in excellent "as-found" vintage condition and is currently working (including the alarm). The case shows honest "brassing" on the lugs and edges, consistent with a well-loved tool watch from the 1950s. The dial has a soft, even patina. The case back features a crisp, period-correct commemorative engraving that reads: "OUTSTANDING SALES - TRUXALES - JULY 1958." As with all vintage mechanicals, a professional service is recommended for long-term daily use.