Dodane Type 20

Why We Love It

Among collectors of military watches, the Type 20 is perhaps the most sought after. And of all those out there on the market, those made by Breguet command the most respect. However, that heightened desirability comes with a price tag to match, making other variants look mighty promising.

Dodane produced approximately 5000 examples of the Type 20 (and its more common successor, the Type 21) from the 1950s to the 1980s, making theirs among the most attainable. However, the Type 20 is certainly rarer than the Type 21, which makes the one we offer here all the more special. Moreover, this is an early example dating from the late 1950s to early 1960s. 

Inside and out, this Type 20 has all the makings of a classic. It boasts a strong case replete with military engravings just above "Acier Inoxydable," as well as delicious patina to the luminescent elements of the dial. Recently treated to a full service, it will serve as a faithful companion in all life’s adventures—in the air or on land.

The Story

The Type 20 was designed according to a standard—Type 20—that the Aéronautique Militaire issued in the 1950s. Aesthetically, the Type 20—with its stark black dial, bold Arabic numerals, and 38mm stainless steel case—resembled other military chronographs of the era. But the Type 20 had to have a flyback function—or, in French, retour en vol—that enabled the pilot to stop, reset and start the chronograph again by depressing the bottom pusher just once.

Several manufactures produced the Type 20, including Breguet, Vixa, Auricoste, and Airain.

Dodane, too, was one of them. Although founded in 1857, Dodane didn’t truly hit its stride until the advent of aviation. Under the direction of Alphonse Dodane, Jr., the company focused on producing chronographs for both pilots and the aircrafts they flew.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.