RGM Model 455 Chronograph

Roland G. Murphy is one of the OGs of American watchmaking.

He established his eponymous brand, RGM Watch Company, in 1992 following his tenure as Technical Manager for Hamilton. Since then, he’s built it into a force to be reckoned with; whether it’s a hand-wound chronograph, an automatic pilot’s watch, or a complicated dress piece, RGM’s take is bound to be high-quality.

The particular RGM we have here is a Model 455 Chronograph, the brand’s version of a 1940s-era chrono. Housed in a 38mm stainless steel case with ‘officer’s’ lugs, an unsigned crown, and a stepped bezel, it features a grand feu, glass-fired enamel dial with both telemeter and tachometer scales in a lovely blue print, black printed Breguet indices, and a blued steel Breguet handset. Powered by the Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movement, it comes paired to a brown alligator-style leather strap with a signed, stainless steel pin buckle.

An original, 40s-era chronograph in this type of condition — let alone one with a grand feu enamel dial — would cost an arm and a leg. This is an opportunity to own one at a fraction of said leg, with automatic winding, to boot. 

Don’t pass this one up!

Following a stint as Technical Manager for Hamilton Watch Company, Roland G. Murphy established his eponymous RGM Watch Company in Lancaster, PA in 1992. A WOSTEP-trained watchmaker, Murphy built RGM into one of the most notable American independent watchmakers operating today.

Murphy fuses modern manufacturing techniques with hand-made processes, adding blued steel screws and decorative striping to his movements. Watches such as the Pennsylvania Tourbillon recall the best of American watchmaking, while pieces such as the Model 600 chronograph are inspired by vintage European military watches.

RGM manufactures everything from hand-made, guilloché-dialed masterpieces to sophisticated reproductions of aircraft dial clocks in wristwatch form, making it the perfect watchmaker for someone interested in horological history.

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.