With a “PROTOTYPE” engraving on the caseback, this piece was likely one of the several prototypes which the brand developed during the early days, to test and experiment different designs. Its vintage-inspired aesthetic is a reminder of where the Franck Muller brand first started.
As shown by the engraving on the caseback, this watch is a prototype piece. In the early days of the brand, Franck Muller was known for producing several stainless-steel chronographs, with a vintage-inspired aesthetic, reminiscent of mid-century pieces. Considering the brand produced several different variations, we assume that this would have been one of the prototypes produced to test a particular design. Typically, prototypes remain within the brand or with employees involved in their creation, so one appearing publicly is always intriguing.
The pared-back, streamlined layout of the dial is a trait shared by many of Muller’s earlier watches, before he became more well-known for his bold and experimental designs. With this piece, Muller draws upon classic elements that can be found on vintage two-register chronographs, combining them with oversized Breguet numerals and a flash of red on the minute track around the outside.
The case is very distinct with its polished, stepped concave bezel and contrasting brushed outer portion. The three-piece construction gives the watch a bold presence on the wrist, measuring 36mm in diameter. Cased in stainless steel, it gives this chronograph a utilitarian and practical aesthetic. The “PROTOTYPE” and “N. 0/0” are engraved into the caseback, in the same style as the “FRANCK MULLER GENEVE” markings, and consistent with other Franck Muller pieces from the same period. Concealed within is a modified Lemania calibre 1874; a reliable and well-constructed movement found in a number of high quality chronographs from the period.
If sold within the United Kingdom, this Franck Muller “Prototype” Chronograph will be subject to 20% VAT.
Please note that our auctions do not have a buyer’s premium. The winning bid is the final price.
Closer look
| Brand: | Franck Muller |
| Model: | “Prototype” Chronograph |
| Movement: | Manual-winding calibre |
| Functions: | Chronograph functions, telemeter, hours, minutes, seconds |
| Case material: | Stainless steel |
| Case diameter: | 36mm |
| Crystal: | Sapphire front |
| Strap: | Navy leather strap, black alligator leather strap, stainless steel buckle |
| Lug width: | 18x16mm |
| Year: | c. 1991 |
| Box & papers: | – |
This Franck Muller “Prototype” Chronograph is in good condition overall, with some marks throughout consistent with wear over time. There are more noticeable marks on the bezel (notably between 6 and 9 o’clock), on the polished the sides of the case and on the surface of the caseback. The edge of the caseback and a portion of the main case also displays marks, likely resulting from a previous attempt to open the caseback. The dial, crown, caseback and movement all carry the Franck Muller signature.
The watch comes with a two-year warranty from A Collected Man, alongside a lifetime guarantee of authenticity.
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