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I have a similar watch. Does smeone know how to remove the winding button? - I wish to replace mine as it has worn smooth.

If there is a square stem protruding from the stem tube into the case (the more usual negative set system) hold this with pliers and rotate crown anti-clockwise to unwind it off its thread.

If like the case above I'd suggest fit something into the female square end visible, to prevent rotation, and again unwind the crown - but I have not met the system illustrated - so no guarantees !

Brad,

You have a nice watch. Even with it's generic Swiss movement, it's an excellent example of a World War One "trench watch."

The "FB" stamp in the caseback is the trademark of Francois Borgel, a well known and highly innovative case designer, active until at least the 1930s.

Your case is perhaps the best known of his designs, and was one of several versions of "hermetic" cases made in early attempts to seal out water and dust, and to protect the movement. Borgel's design was innovative enough that the rights to it would eventually be bought by one Hans Wilsdorf of Rolex fame, either to adapt into his eventual "Oyster" case design, or just to eliminate some competition. The crown should have a deep shoulder channel, with a rubber gasket, to seal against the heavy and deep case tube.

Regards,

Cary

thanks cary. i've seen many referred to as 'borgels' but hadn't really had any confirmation. it's bit worn and weathered, but i like it that way. i wonder if it was actually involved in WW1?