Dodane Type 23-C "Black Squadron" 1/1 Flyback Chronograph

The Dodane Type 23-F French Air Force Chronograph is an exceptionally rare military-inspired timepiece that carries forward more than a century of French aviation watchmaking. Founded in 1857, Dodane established a reputation for producing precision chronographs and timing instruments for military aviation, eventually becoming closely associated with the French armed forces. The Type 23 collection draws upon this heritage, following the legendary Type 20 and Type 21 flyback chronographs developed for French military pilots during the mid-20th century. This particular Type 23-F was produced in a limited series of just 300 examples for the French Air Force, making it a particularly interesting piece for collectors of military and aviation watches. Its black dial features oversized luminous Arabic numerals, a traditional bi-compax chronograph layout, and the distinctive French Air Force insignia positioned above 6 o'clock. The emblem, featuring golden wings and a military crest, provides an unmistakable connection to the watch's aviation identity and distinguishes it from standard-production Dodane chronographs.

The watch features a stainless steel case with a black rotating timing bezel, prominent chronograph pushers, and a screw-down crown positioned at 3 o'clock. The dial's two recessed registers provide a 30-minute chronograph counter at 9 o'clock and running seconds at 3 o'clock, while an additional tachymeter scale surrounds the outer dial. Large luminous hands and hour markers ensure excellent legibility, preserving the functional design principles of traditional military-issued pilot chronographs. A black leather strap complements the instrument-inspired appearance, allowing the distinctive dial and French Air Force insignia to remain the focal points. Combining Dodane's longstanding military aviation heritage, traditional mechanical chronograph functionality, and production limited to just 300 pieces, the Type 23-F offers a rare connection to French military horology and represents a distinctive addition to any collection of historically inspired pilot watches.

Model: Type 23-C

Limited: 1/1

Dated: Undated

Strap: Black rubber strap

Case: 42.5mm - Stainless Steel

Movement: Dubois Depraz 42030 Flyback - Automatic

Functions: HMS, Flyback Chronograph

Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 8"

Case has minimal light wear. Strap has little to no wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Caseback engraved "Alexis Sarkissian LE General".

Dodane is a historic French watchmaking company founded in 1857 by Alphonse Dodane in the Besançon region of France. Over successive generations, the family business developed a specialty in precision timekeeping instruments, including chronographs and equipment used in aviation. The company became particularly well known for supplying timing instruments and wristwatches to the French military.

During the 1950s and 1960s, Dodane became one of the manufacturers associated with France's Type 20 and Type 21 military pilot chronographs. These manually wound watches were designed around practical aviation requirements, including highly legible dials, rotating bezels, and flyback chronograph movements that allowed pilots to restart timing immediately. Original examples are often identified by their military markings, caseback engravings, and service records.

Today, vintage Dodane chronographs are appreciated for their genuine connection to French military aviation and their straightforward, functional design. While the Type 20 and Type 21 are the best-known models, Dodane's broader history in aviation instruments gives these watches a significance that extends beyond their appearance.