Favre Leuba Bivouac Reference 53203 Original Bracelet & Rare Ivory Bezel

Founded in 1737, Favre-Leuba reached its creative peak during the 1960s, introducing a remarkable series of purpose-built instruments that pushed mechanical watchmaking beyond simple timekeeping. 

The Bivouac stands at the very summit of that achievement. Introduced in 1962 as the world’s first mechanical wristwatch to incorporate an aneroid barometer and altimeter, it was designed for mountaineers, explorers and adventurers who needed more than just the time. Worn on expeditions by legendary climbers such as Walter Bonatti and polar explorer Paul-Émile Victor, it quickly earned its place among the most innovative tool watches ever produced. 

The present example is made even more remarkable by its exceptionally rare ivory altitude bezel, MK I dial and signed bracelet, it represents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire one of vintage watchmaking’s most ingenious creations. 

Please refer to the high-resolution pictures to assess the overall condition of the watch. 

MODEL / REFERENCE: Favre-Leuba Bivouac, reference 53203. First-generation mechanical altimeter/barometer wristwatch dating from the 1960s. Fitted with its original multi-link stainless steel bracelet manufactured by J.B. Champion. Inventory code: ALP-07. 

DIAL + HANDS: Beautifully preserved silver sunburst MK I dial featuring the characteristic barometric pressure scale calibrated in millimetres of mercury. The applied baton indexes remain crisp and bright with only light signs of age. The original hour and minute hands retain their finish, while the distinctive red barometric indicator provides a striking contrast and remains in excellent condition. Printing throughout is sharp and complete. 

CRYSTAL: Domed acrylic crystal in very good condition, displaying only the faintest surface marks consistently with careful use. 

CASE: Stainless-steel case measuring 39mm in diameter. With its distinctive profile, designed to house the integrated air-pressure capsule, it remains remarkably well preserved with strong proportions throughout. The seemingly unpolished surface displays honest signs of wear and light scratches throughout, mainly on the lugs. 

One of the highlights of this watch is undoubtedly its exceptionally rare ivory bezel insert, calibrated with an altitude scale and preserved in outstanding condition. Previously unknown to us, it could be a prototype bezel that considerably enhances both the rarity and desirability of this already exceptional piece. 

CASEBACK: Stainless-steel screw-down case back featuring the iconic Matterhorn engraving at its centre. The relief remains crisp and well defined, while the surrounding engravings are deep and fully legible. The surface displays only honest wear and light scratches consistently with careful handling. 

CROWN: Unsigned crown, likely a later replacement. It operates properly, allowing smooth winding and precise time setting. 

MOVEMENT: Signed, Favre-Leuba in-house manual-winding cal. 10032. One of the most technically ambitious movements of its era, it powers both the timekeeping functions and the integrated aneroid barometer through an ingenious mechanical system. The movement has been checked by our watchmaker and runs properly while keeping accurate time. 

BRACELET: Original stainless-steel multi-link bracelet manufactured by J.B. Champion and fitted with its signed folding clasp. It remains in excellent vintage condition with only minor signs of wear and fits a wrist of approx. 17 to 17.5 cm. 

ACCESSORIES: Saffiano leather watch roll. 

WARRANTY: We guarantee the authenticity of the watch. We also provide a 12-month warranty covering the correct function of this timepiece. All guarantees are subject to our General Terms and Conditions. 

Please feel free to ask questions; we will be glad to answer. Personal or virtual viewing is available by appointment.