Gruen | Tank Quadron

Gruen, founded in 1894, was a pioneering force in American and Swiss watchmaking, known for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovative design. In the 1920s, as rectangular wristwatches became fashionable, Gruen was among the first to develop movements specifically shaped for these cases, rather than adapting round movements as many competitors did. The Quadron line, launched in 1925, was Gruen’s first series of rectangular (tonneau-shaped) wristwatches for men, and it quickly became a commercial success. These watches featured 15- or 17-jewel movements, such as the Caliber 157, designed to maximize the use of the rectangular case space and allow for a thinner, more elegant profile. The Quadron series is also recognized for its Art Deco styling and was produced in various models through the early 1930s, setting the stage for Gruen’s later innovations like the Curvex.

Watch Details

Brand: Gruen
Model: Tank Quadron / Ref. 157 8
Case Number: 50334 85
Serial Number: 111XXXX
Movement Number: Cal. 157

Movement Details

Type: Manual
Jewels: 15
Complications: Sub-Seconds

Case

Material: White Gold Filled
Diameter: Approx. 22mm
Lug to Lug Length: Approx. 37mm

Bracelet

Material: Leather
Length: Approx. 7 Inches (Not Including Watch Head)

Additional Information

Gender: Male/Unisex
Dial Color: Silver/Grey
Crystal: Plastic
Year of Manufacture: Approx. 1920's
Condition: Pre-Owned
Functionality: Movement runs and sets as it should, but has not been bench tested for precise accuracy. We do not guarantee timekeeping accuracy. We always recommend servicing for daily use and timekeeping accuracy.
Box & Papers: N/A

Notes

This Gruen features a 22mm wide by 37mm lug-to-lug white gold filled case that sits in overall good condition for its age. It features consistent wear throughout. Most notably with a small ding to its case back and a horizontal scratch on the bottom bezel. Its eye-catching silvered dial is compliments its case and shows some visible scratches to its center and sub-seconds complication. It sports gold arabic numerals, hand, and sub-seconds notation. Its crystal shows light scratches upon close inspection. This piece is powered by a 15-jeweled manual-wind movement and is fitted with a brown leather strap that differs from that in the images. Photos of its current strap configuration are available upon request. It is lacking keepers for remaining strap to be tucked into. Overall, this Gruen sits in fair vintage condition, showing wear consistent with its age.