Vintage square-cased watch - opinions needed

[Robertus2]

Dear Forum Mates,
one of my friends has the scanned vintage watch in her possession and that for many-many decades. I'm not a specialist of vintage watches of this kind. I'd like to have your input about the chances the watch being genuine or not.
Because we see loads of similar posts everywhere I must stress the following:
she is not willing to sell the watch, she loves the watch regardless of it being genuine or not. For the same reason I do not wish valuation (if it comes no problem). I know it is much safer to say anything with the movement visible but now we have to tell what can be told only seeing the case, dial and hands. I thought first that the watch has been made in the '30-s but now I tend to say somewhat later.
Only reason of my post: as a wristwatch enthusiast I am to say something about the watch... :)
Thanks for any kind input! Best regards,
Robert

[Stan Cooper]

I found this ebay listing advertised as all original from 1936. The dial numerals appear to be applied gold, the hands are different, and the dial has a Rolex crown. The case looks similar and the case size is listed as 22mm x 34mm.

[Robertus2]

Thank you very much for your input! Regards,
Robert

Originally Posted by Stan Cooper

I found this ebay listing advertised as all original from 1936. The dial numerals appear to be applied gold, the hands are different, and the dial has a Rolex crown. The case looks similar and the case size is listed as 22mm x 34mm.

[Stan Cooper]

Robert, I found this 1938 ad celebrating the success of the Kew Observatory tests, and the tank watch in the ad looks very much like your picture. Sadly, there's nothing identifying the reference.

[Tools]

During the era of these watches, '20s thru '40s, Aegler made movements, concurrently, for both the Gruen and Rolex watch companies.

Sometimes it's difficult to tell a Gruen from a Rolex when the dials have been redone. More research needs to be done than simply a dial pic.

These watches developed into the Gruen Curvex, and the Rolex Prince models.

[Stan Cooper]

Originally Posted by Tools

During the era of these watches, '20s thru '40s, Aegler made movements, concurrently, for both the Gruen and Rolex watch companies.

Sometimes it's difficult to tell a Gruen from a Rolex when the dials have been redone. More research needs to be done than simply a dial pic.

These watches developed into the Gruen Curvex, and the Rolex Prince models.

Thanks, Larry.

[R.W.T.]

both of those dials are refinished. imho.

[Robertus2]

Thank you for all your replies!
Regards,
Robert