Context

Valjoux (Reymond Frères SA) is historically associated with chronograph ébauches and complete movements. The Valjoux 230 flyback belongs to the technical lineage of the Valjoux 23 family and follows an “instrument” logic: robustness, clear layout, and functions designed for practical timing.

The flyback principle

The flyback (“return-to-zero”) function allows the chronograph to be reset to zero and immediately restarted without the usual sequence stop → reset → start. This feature is typically linked to aviation timing, where consecutive short measurements must be performed quickly and repeatedly.

The Valjoux 230 flyback movement (Valjoux 23 base)

The Valjoux 230 is a manual-winding chronograph incorporating flyback, built on a base derived from the Valjoux 23 (a reference architecture in the Valjoux chronograph line). This lineage explains the overall dimensions and the coherent layout of the chronograph mechanism.

• Diameter: 30 mm
• Height: 5.85 mm
• Frequency: 18,000 A/h
• Lift angle: 52°

Application: Dodane military chronographs (Type 21 / Type 20–21 universe)

In French military watchmaking, Type 20 / Type 21 refers to a functional specification approach for pilot chronographs. Dodane Type 21 watches are part of this universe, where the flyback function is a central operational feature.

Historical reading

The Valjoux 230 flyback illustrates how a proven chronograph base (the Valjoux 23 family) could be adapted to integrate a high-utility function: flyback. It documents a key chapter of “tool watch” chronograph history, at the crossroads of technical requirements, standardization, and service use.