Freese 101 Watch, 39mm (c. 2021)

A uniquely aged, artisan-built tool watch from one of Britain’s most respected independent watchmakers.

NOTE FROM THE CURATOR

Simon Freese’s work has always blurred the line between restoration and creation. Known across the vintage watch world for his meticulous touch, Freese turned his skills to crafting small runs of watches that celebrate patina and mechanical charm. The Freese 101 is one of those rare pieces. Purposefully aged, a warm tool watch-inspired vintage design, and mechanically sound.

This particular example, number 101/049, stands out with a faded blue bezel and a naturally crazed dial, both intentionally designed to evoke the charm of a well-loved vintage diver. It’s powered by the reliable ETA 2824 automatic movement. Everything about this watch feels deliberate. It's a piece that is meant to be worn, not coddled.

CONDITION REPORT

Good overall condition consistent with the model’s intentionally aged aesthetic.

• Faux-tina and “wabi-sabi” dial and bezel are part of the design language

• Light surface wear on case sides (fine scuffs and scratches)

• Small dings on underside bevel of case, and on one of the lugs

• Watch runs smoothly and functions as intended

Please refer to photos for a detailed view of the finish, texture, and condition. 

ACCESSORIES

• Personalized letter to original owner, signed by watchmaker Simon Freese

• Brown leather carry pouch

• Metal military tin-style case

SPECIFICATIONS

• Case: 39mm stainless steel

• Thickness: 15.4mm

• Lug-to-lug: 47.7mm

• Lug width: 20mm

• Water Resistance: 3 ATM (everyday use; not for diving)

• Crown: Screw-down

• Movement: ETA 2824 automatic (manual wind option by unscrewing crown)

• Setting:

  • Manual wind possible in first position after unscrewing

  • Pull crown to second position to set time
    

STRAP

• Material: Brown distressed leather

• Length: 122.4mm (long side) / 75.4mm (short side)

• Lug width: 20mm

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