Alpina ‘Disco Volante’ – Rare Double-Signed Black Gilt Dial, circa 1938

An exceptionally rare Alpina ‘Disco Volante’ from the late 1930s, featuring a beautiful black gilt dial with an unusual double signature.

What makes this particular example especially interesting is the original signature of C. Ismer & Co., a prestigious watchmaker and jeweller established in Shanghai, China, in 1886. During the 1930s, the company was located at 134 Nanking Road, Shanghai, one of the city’s most prominent shopping streets.

The retailer’s name appears directly beneath the Alpina signature on the dial, making this an exceptionally interesting double-signed example. In over 25 years of dealing in vintage watches, we have never encountered another Alpina with this particular retailer signature.

The watch features a distinctive 31 mm lugless case made from Staybrite stainless steel, giving it a remarkable wrist presence despite its modest dimensions.

The beautiful black gilt dial features golden numerals, a subsidiary seconds register at 6 o’clock and attractive signs of natural ageing. Another remarkable detail is the original faceted plexiglass, rarely encountered on watches from this period.

Powered by an Alpina manual-winding movement, this is a wonderful example of pre-war Swiss watchmaking, made even more special by its fascinating connection to historic Shanghai.

A truly rare and highly collectible Alpina with an extraordinary double-signed dial.