Vulcain Cricket Alarm watch S2312B Jumbo Gold Plated

SPECIFICATION

Reference : Vulcain Cricket S2312B
Movement : cal. MSR S2
Age : Circa 1970s
Case Size : 38mm
Case Thickness : 12mm
Lug to Lug : 42mm
Lugs : 22mm
Condition : Used Vulcain watch
Box & Papers : No
Case Material : Gold plated, stainless steel case back
Warranty : 12-Months Warranty

 POINTS TO MENTION

• In fantastic pre-owned condition, with lights wear from use
• Case and bezel have some light scratches and marks
• Vertically brushed gold dial
• Dial has 2 light scratches and some spotting
• Signed crown
• Paired with an unworn brown genuine leather strap
• Fully serviced movement
• Alarm function working beautifully

THE WATCH 

Vulcain had been working on a wrist watch alarm since 1942 and aimed to solve the problems of previous attempts. Instead of comprising on the alarms length by using only one mainspring, they fitted a separate spring in the movement that would solely power the alarm and by rotating the crown in different directions, the winding stem would switch between the different barrels instantly.

To increase the volume of the alarm, the hammer would strike a pin connected to a metal membrane that would act as a resonator. This membrane was covered by an outer case with sound holes, similar to that on a cello, that allowed the sound to escape. A pusher at 2 o'clock would allow the user to stop the alarm once they were alerted, rather than letting it run down. The watch was called the Vulcain Cricket as the hammer would strike up to 1300 times in just 25 seconds to create a very distinctive mechanical chirping sound.

Released in 1947, the Cricket became a huge success with Vulcain releasing several variations over the years such as the golden voice, a smaller watch made for women with a gold membrane that maintained excellent sound despite a smaller size. The new Caliber 401 released in 1958 added a date and subsidiary seconds but was never as popular as the addition of the date window meant there was no room for a second barrel which decreased the alarm time and increased the cost. 

Setting the alarm function is straightforward and easy. The watch must first be wound (forward and backward, for timekeeping and alarm functions). Next, press the pusher down at two o'clock until it clicks. This will eject the crown, which can then be rotated to set the alarm. The fourth hand acts as its indicator. Simply push the crown in, and the alarm is set and ready to go.

A BIT OF TRIVIA

The Vulcain watch manufacturer was founded in 1858 and is the inventor of the alarm complication for wristwatches. This innovation made the Vulcain watches popular with American presidents starting with Harry S. Truman in 1953, earning the brand its reputation as “The Watch for Presidents'' . President Lyndon Johnson was possibly the crickets biggest fan, buying his personal piece in Geneva and having his signature included on the dial. He also acquired a bulk order of 200 Crickets to give away as gifts during his term. But while the president may have been an admirer, with rumors stating he would often set the alarm to go off during meetings to give him an excuse to leave early In 1954 an Italian climbing party summited K2 with Vulcain Crickets on their wrists In 1956 During a press conference the Vulcain Cricket of Dwight D. Eisenhower sounded it's alarm for everyone to hear. This led to a new advertising slogan: "Do as Ike does!"

 Vulcain holds a distinctive place in the world of fine watchmaking thanks to its iconic models and unique mechanical movements. The company, which has been active since 1858 in the production of exceptional timepieces, is now established in a mansion in Le Locle, cradle of Swiss watchmaking.

With more than 150 years of history and innovation, Vulcain perpetuates its historical heritage and unique know-how. The manufacture has a prominent role within the international watchmaking landscape thanks to its high-quality mechanical timepieces manufactured in-house.

OUR THOUGHTS

The Vulcain Cricket is wonderful watch with exceptional history, being 50 plus year old they are hard to come by in this fantastic condition. As watch enthusiasts ourselves, its been an absolute joy having this Cricket around. When the alarm goes off you can't help but smile, and boy can you hear it. A mechanical alarm watch is a must have in any collectors watch box.