LIP Exotic Dial Chronograph

Why We Love It During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Lip produced some watches whose vibrant colors have captured the hearts of collectors today—and perhaps the most popular of these is the chronograph that has acquired the nickname “Paul Newman.” Like the Daytona that carries the same nickname, this Lip chronograph bears a dial designed by Singer. A distinguishing feature of these “Paul Newman” dials are the square markers in the chronograph sub-registers. So distinctive is the Daytona worn by Paul Newman that dials of this style (which were also used by Wakmann and Vulcain, among others) have been given that nickname by collectors despite not having any connection to the actor himself. Nevertheless, these chronographs by Lip are known for their vibrant colors (something that Lip incorporated in many of their mid-century designs). Ours is a silver-and-blue variant with black sub-register hands. At 36mm, this is a sprightly, sporty chronograph from a pivotal era in French history. The Story Lip’s story began in 1867, when Emmanuel Lipman founded a clock workshop in Besançon, France. By the 20th century the company had become known as Lip and was producing 2500 pieces a year. Despite these early successes, Lip began to experience financial troubles, and was embroiled in the civil unrest that swept through the country in 1968. Disputes between the workers and management would continue until 1973, when the workers took over the factory with the slogan “we make them, we sell them, we pay ourselves!” Yet through all this turmoil, the company continued to produce watches. Although a little off the beaten path today, they still resonate with collectors, thanks to their bright colors and avant-garde designs.