A rare relic from a time when Swiss watchmakers weren’t afraid to blend elegance with experiment, this Favre-Leuba Sandoz Tank is a distinctive piece with dual heritage. Likely dating back to the 1940s–50s, the watch carries the design language of the Art Deco era with its curved rectangular (tonneau) case and bold Arabic numerals.
The dial has aged into a creamy parchment tone, with visible hairline cracks and wear that add character rather than take away from it. Its sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock is neatly bordered, and the blued-steel hands remain beautifully intact. The co-branded Favre-Leuba x Sandoz signature is rare and speaks to collaborative efforts within Swiss manufacturing circles of the time.
Powered by a manually wound mechanical movement, this tank-style piece wears compact on the wrist but carries undeniable presence. The expandable steel bracelet is likely a later pairing, adding a bit of functional flair.
Model: Favre-Leuba Sandoz Tank
Movement: Manual wind (Swiss mechanical)
Case Shape: Tonneau / Curved rectangular
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial: Cream-toned with visible patina and sub-seconds at 6 o’clock
Hands: Blued-steel leaf hands
Numerals: Black Arabic numerals
Crystal: Domed acrylic
Bracelet: Stainless steel expandable (likely aftermarket)
Era: Circa 1940s–50s
Origin: Swiss Made
Condition: Vintage – visible dial wear, fully intact hands and crown