{"title":"Watches","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"grana-dirty-dozen-w-w-w","title":"Grana 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W.","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers. Amongst them, were brands such as IWC, Longines and Jaeger-LeCoultre and they had to follow the strict specifications set out by the MoD. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was the property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhile it’s been mentioned that more prestigious brands produced W.W.Ws, right at the top of the heap and what is often the missing piece in a collection, is a little known brand called Grana. Powered by a simple manually wound, chronometer graded KF 320 movement, it looks like your typical military issued watch, but of course, with collecting, it all boils down to rarity as only 1000-1500 pieces were produced. Compared to others, they made 5 times as many IWCs and Longines, 10 times as many Jaeger-LeCoultres and 25 times as many Omegas!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eYou really do not see these coming up that often, this is the end game for Dirty Dozen collectors. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1944","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39284549964,"sku":"","price":9200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Grana_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501728954"},{"product_id":"lemania-dive-supervisor-vintage-watch","title":"Lemania Dive Supervisor","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIf there was ever a sleeper of a watch, this could very possibly be it. Thought to be fake initially due to certain discrepancies, these Lemania ‘Dive Supervisors’ issued to the Royal Navy were proven by the community at the Military Watch Forum to be genuine and in fact one of the rarest military issued watches ever made. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe proof that this watch was genuinely issued to the Royal Navy is provided through two corroborating documents. The first is from a Def Stan (UK Defence Standardisation) document (64 Table III.a) that states ‘0552\/160647’ as a ‘supervisor’s watch. These markings are found on the back of this Lemania. The second is from a Royal Navy dive book (BR 2806 Chapter 3334.1) that states ‘two types of watches are provided for use when diving- the diver’s watch ‘Rolex’ or ‘Omega’, and the supervisor’s watch, ‘Lemania’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eAs we all know, the first watches mentioned are the Rolex Mil Sub and the Omega Military Seamaster 300. As for the third it is agreed to be the very Lemania you see. Dive Supervisors were not required to dive, but instead were always top-side supervising. This is further supporting evidence as the Lemania Dive Supervisor is not similarly robust as the Rolex or Omega.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThat being said, it is still housed in a Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) super compressor case. These cases were used by many companies who also produced dive watches such as Enicar and Jaeger-LeCoultre. Despite seemingly small at 34mm, this watch wears much larger due to it’s unusually long lugs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe no-date Lemania Dive Supervisor was issued for one year only in 1965, with a date version issued in 1968. An extremely rare watch, it is estimated only 300 or so were issued.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAs the Military Omega Seamaster 300, Rolex Mil Sub and Lemania Diver Supervisor are all historically tied, for those who know, owning the trilogy is somewhat of an achievement. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1965","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41249072460,"sku":"","price":4300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Lemania_Dive_Supervisor_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1507366282"},{"product_id":"lecoultre-valjoux-72","title":"LeCoultre Valjoux 72 E.335","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThere is something remarkably elegant and versatile about a simple white dialled, three register chronograph. With this Jaeger-LeCoultre Ref. E335, it certainly fits the bill, both with it’s good looks and high quality. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe LeCoultre E355 is all about the details that sets it apart. Beginning with its white dial with a two-tone of blue and black text, it is very legible alongside the precise sword hands. The case, stainless steel and large at 35.5mm has very stylised downturned lugs and a polished bezel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ePowered by the legendary Valjoux 72 movement, it was, during it’s time one of the most popular column wheeled ebauches, used most famously in the Rolex Daytona and Heuer Autavia. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis watch is incredibly easy to wear, working both as a casual and work watch- in my opinion one of the great everyday vintage watches. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41761573388,"sku":"","price":4000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/LeCoultre_V72.jpg?v=1504419108"},{"product_id":"wittnauer-242t","title":"Wittnauer 242T","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn the last two years, the Wittnauer 242T has rocketed to fame and has become one of the most desired vintage chronographs on the market. Always referred to as the watch that was tested by NASA alongside the Omega Speedmaster to go to the moon, despite there being no proof of this, it has captured the imaginations of collectors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWhile that has played a role in its recent popularity, I would go to say that it’s unique dial design is just as responsible. The 242T has one of the most interesting luminous plot layouts I’ve ever seen, varying in sizes and alternating in its position throughout. The plots on its matte black dial certainly look like a planetary chart in the night sky. No wonder it’s space travel connection is so strong.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eNot only that, the matte dial is made even more complicated with an inner dotted track and a decimal track on the periphery of the dial. The dial has added depth with glossy subdial rings contrasting with the matte finish. To top this off, the 242T has classic thick Wittnauer hands filled with lume and a lollipop seconds hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eA huge watch at 39mm, all the magic is in the beautifully unusual design of the dial. This really is the kind of watch that you just continually stare at without thinking about reading the time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41763398604,"sku":"","price":10250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Wittnauer_242T_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1508580835"},{"product_id":"omega-fat-arrow-53-raf-1","title":"Omega 'Fat Arrow' 53 RAF CK 2777-1","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Omega CK2777-1 issued to the British Royal Air Force in 1953 is perhaps one of the highest quality timepieces ever produced for the military. Due to the need to withstand the strenuous conditions of flying in the RAF, they were made to strict specifications from the British MoD (Ministry of Defence). As a result, it had to be highly anti-magnetic, regulated to a chronometer grade and housed in a tough stainless steel case. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOriginally equipped with a radium dial, this example features a tritium ‘Fat Arrow’ dial. Because of the high radioactivity in radium, it was deemed unsafe to be used as luminous material and as such, the MoD recalled most of these timepieces in order to change to tritium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFlip the watch around and you will be greeted with military markings, which I think is one of the most charming aspects of owning such a piece. It has a large broadarrow, indicating that it was government property, designation numbers (6B\/542) and beneath that its case number with the year (\/53) it was delivered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe anti-magnetism of the CK2777-1 was achieved through the use of a thick iron dial (1mm), Mu-metal dust cap and iron caseback, forming a Faraday cage. If this sounds familiar, it is because this watch was the predecessor to the more famous Railmaster, released 4 years later.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eMovement side, it is powered by a specially adjusted and chronometer graded Cal. 283. This accuracy was very important to the pilots as it was not only used to co-ordinate missions, but also to navigate. I am a big fan of military timepieces in general because they were made for a real need, where functionality determined form. While today in the military we have much more advanced technology, it was back then where the accuracy of your watch could save your life. Because of this, one often finds these vintage military timepieces to be incredibly simple yet high quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIssued to the RAF for only one year, these ‘Fat Arrow’ Omegas are becoming highly sought after due to both the important military provenance and 37mm wearability. Only 5900 pieces were produced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1953","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41766699020,"sku":"","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Omega_FA_53_10710_53.jpg?v=1502784697"},{"product_id":"iwc-mk-11-raf","title":"IWC Mk 11 RAF","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mk 11 wristwatch issued to the British Royal Air Force (RAF) was aviation’s equivalent to the marine chronometer- aptly nicknamed the air chronometer. Considered by many to be the original Pilot’s watch, it was made to the incredibly strict 6B\/346 specifications and was one of the costliest commissions for a wristwatch by a military. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSome of the 6B\/346 specs included the need to be regulated or adjusted to a chronometer level, the need for a hacking function, for it to be waterproof and to be anti-magnetic. These all stemmed from real needs from pilot’s in the RAF who relied on these watches both for navigation and timing purposes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mk 11 watches can lay claim to be the first watch that was built from the ground up to be antimagnetic. With a thick iron dial and a soft iron dust cap, this created a Faraday cage, protecting the movement from any interference from the other equipment on the plane. It was, without doubt the most advanced watch issued to the military at the time. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis example features a ’T’ stamped dial, indicating that at some point, the luminous material was changed by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) from the harmful radium to tritium.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOften misnamed as a Mark 11 or Mark XI, the correct spelling according to the MoD is actually Mk 11. A perennial favourite amongst collectors partly due to its utilitarian no-nonsense layout and incredible quality, the Mk 11 is a great casual watch to wear as a daily beater. With only roughly 8000 pieces produced, this is considered a rare timepiece rich in historical provenance.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41772060300,"sku":"","price":8100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/IWC_Mk_11.jpg?v=1501730468"},{"product_id":"copy-of-omega-fat-arrow-53-raf","title":"Omega 'Fat Arrow' 53 RAF Ck 2777-1","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Omega CK2777-1 issued to the British Royal Air Force in 1953 is perhaps one of the highest quality timepieces ever produced for the military. Due to the need to withstand the strenuous conditions of flying in the RAF, they were made under strict specifications from the British MoD (Ministry of Defence). As a result, it had to be highly anti-magnetic, regulated to a chronometer grade and housed in a tough stainless steel case. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginally equipped with a radium dial, this example features a tritium ‘Fat Arrow’ dial. Because of the high radioactivity in radium, it was deemed unsafe to be used as luminous material and as such, the MoD recalled most of these timepieces in order to change to tritium.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eFlip the watch around and you will be greeted with military markings, which I think is one of the most charming aspects of owning such a piece. It has a large broadarrow, indicating that it was government property, designation numbers (6B\/542) and beneath that its case number with the year (\/53) it was delivered.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe anti-magnetism of the CK2777-1 was achieved through the use of a thick iron dial (1mm), Mu-metal dust cap and iron caseback, forming a Faraday cage. If this sounds familiar, it is because this watch was the predecessor to the more famous Railmaster, released 4 years later. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eMovement side, it is powered by a specially adjusted and chronometer graded Cal. 283. This accuracy was very important to the pilots as it was not only used to co-ordinate missions, but also to navigate. I am a big fan of military timepieces in general because they were made for a real need, where functionality determined form. While today in the military we have much more advanced technology, it was back then where the accuracy of your watch could save your life. Because of this, one often finds these vintage military timepieces to be incredibly simple yet high quality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIssued to the RAF for only one year, these ‘Fat Arrow’ Omegas are becoming highly sought after due to both the important military provenance and 37mm wearability. Only 5900 pieces were produced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1953","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41773090636,"sku":"","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Omega_RAF_53_4011_53.jpg?v=1501652293"},{"product_id":"richard-triple-calendar-chronograph","title":"Richard Triple Calendar Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIf you are looking for an elegant and complicated vintage timepiece, look no further. This extremely rare Richard Triple Calendar Chronograph in 18k pink gold offers you the looks of a watch way above its price tag, reminiscent of Universal Geneve, Vacheron Constantin and Jaeger-LeCoultre. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIt comes with a glossy black dial and contrasting gilt printing that really shines in the light. What makes this example unusual is that it was cased in a solid 18 carat pink gold case during a time where most of the watches were cased in yellow gold. What you get is a warmer tone of gold together with the matching rose gold leaf hands and hour dot markers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eBy vintage standards, this is indeed a complicated watch with a triple calendar displaying the day and month through the two apertures at 12 o’clock and the date on the outer track with a red arrow pointer. It can be easily set via the pushers at 7 and 9 o’clock. Together with the full chronograph complication, the Valjoux 72C beating inside this Richard not only demonstrates its quality but makes for an incredibly useful timepiece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ePaired with an elegant suit or a button up shirt with half rolled sleeves, this Richard Tripe Calendar Chronograph is one of the most beautiful dress piece. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41778096140,"sku":"","price":3250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Richard_Triple_Calendar.jpg?v=1501820536"},{"product_id":"breitling-top-time-ref-810-chronograph","title":"Breitling Top Time Ref. 810","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Breitling Top Time range has always been popular amongst vintage watch collectors, due to its relatively accessible price point and classic good looks. Designed originally to appeal to a younger audience, Breitling positioned this watch towards anyone with an active lifestyle, advertising it as an ‘instrument panel’ on the wrist. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThat being said, while there are many variations in the Top Time family both in aesthetics and quality, the one to collect is arguably the ‘Long Playing’ Ref. 810. Nicknamed ‘Long Playing’ due to its extraordinarily long mainspring that provided users with a 52 hour power reserve, it is somewhat a sleeper in the vintage watch community- but I doubt it will be for long.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe Ref. 810 comprises characteristics that make for a classic chronograph- most notably a stunning panda dial- black sub-registers and a silver dial. Other aspects include a large 38mm case with muscular lugs and the thing that sets it apart from other Top Times- the Venus 178 movement. Most Top Times used a lower quality cam controlled Valjoux 77, whereas this early Top Time from 1969 used a column wheel movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI would consider the Ref. 810 to be Breitling’s equivalent of a Heuer Carrera, a true classic. While the panda dialed Carrera 2447 NST is at a stratospheric price point, with the ‘Long Playing’ Top Time, you get a classic chronograph with a beautiful panda dial for a fraction of the cost.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41779073164,"sku":"","price":5000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Breitling-Top-Time-810-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1506659113"},{"product_id":"zenith-el-primero-a-3817-chronograph","title":"Zenith El Primero A 3817","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn horological history, the release of the Zenith El Primero in the late 60’s stands out as one of the more defining moments. Dubbed the first ever automatic chronograph to be made in production, the El Primero to this day remains largely unchanged and truly an icon. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe thing with vintage El Primeros and all of it’s variants is just how rare they are. I still think that they are incredibly underrated based on production numbers, it’s unique design and the historical significance. For instance, this watch, the Ref. A 3817, was only made in 1,000 examples while other variants were made from about 250 pieces to 2,600. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSpeaking of design, even though it is the movement that is historically iconic, the design language Zenith used for their El Primero is perhaps deserves just as much. In this A 3817, the tricolour subdials, the two tone dial with its grey outer track, the triangular minute scale and red chronograph hand all combine to create a look that is undeniably Zenith. Not to mention, while the more popular A 386 is housed in a more traditional circular case, this A 3817 has a muscular tonneau shaped case. I have to admit, in photos, I could not warm to the idea of wearing such an odd shaped watch but the minute I strapped it on my wrist, I was sold. Trust me, it sits unexpectedly attractively on the wrist. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWhile there is dispute as to whether it was Zenith or the consortium led by Heuer, Seiko, Buren-Hamilton, Breitling and Dubois-Depraz that created the first self-winding chronograph, there is no contest in regards to the quality of the Zenith Cal. 3019 PHC compared to the latter’s Calibre 11. most notably, the way the hi-beat movement allows the chronograph seconds hand to move around the dial so smoothly is a joy to watch. Similarly, resetting the chronograph hand, it jumps straight back to 0 without much backlash or hand quivering. You just know this is pure quality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Late 1960s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41799874892,"sku":"","price":12000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Zenith-El-Primero-A-3817-Front-Shot_9d026b35-894f-480e-8103-cbb021c6b3af.jpg?v=1502872063"},{"product_id":"benrus-type-ii-class-a","title":"Benrus Type II Class A","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis Benrus Type II Class A is a monster of a watch, and for good reason. In the ’70s, the American forces gave Benrus a specification (MIL-W-50717) outlining their needs for a diving watch and what you see here is the result. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eEquipped with a large 43mm super-solid parkerised asymmetrical case, a highly legible dial and simple functionality, these pieces were issued to elite military divers, including the Navy SEALs. Furthermore, with a depth rating at the time of 365 meters and bi-directional notched bezel, this is serious the ultimate utility watch that both looks and acts the part.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe caseback is stamped with all the associated military numbers, including the mil-spec number (MIL-W-50717), the manufacturer and model number, the NSN and manufacturer part number, it’s contract number alongside its production date and serial number.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eInitially, looking at pictures of the Benrus Type II, I wasn’t a fan. I didn’t like its oversized odd-shaped case and sparse design, but then seeing it in the flesh and wearing it, everything changed. This is one of those watches where you really need to try it on to realise it’s impressiveness- everything just feels so solid and high in quality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThese are a grail piece amongst military collectors, so much so that multiple reissues by independent companies have been made, including the Paradive from MKII and the Marathon Navigator. This though is still the best and the original. With only around 9000 pieces made, this is just as rare as the IWC Mk 11 and remains at a very accessible price point.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOne of the last mechanical watches issued to the American forces, it is a true collectable piece that can also be worn daily.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1973","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41801309452,"sku":"","price":2750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Benrus_Type_II_Class_A_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501651320"},{"product_id":"wakmann-albino-triple-calendar-chronograph","title":"Wakmann 'Albino' Triple Calendar Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis Wakmann Triple Calendar Chronograph is everything you would want in a classic vintage timepiece. First of all, by vintage standards this watch is huge. At 39mm, you are not going to find many other chronographs with no bezels at this size. It has a triple calendar function adjustable via pushers on the left side of the watch, and a chronograph function to top things off. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOf late, these Wakmann Triple Calendar Chronographs have been very popular with collectors for the aforementioned reasons. The most common variant, are the reverse panda versions. This though, is a much rarer example with an albino dial. You certainly won’t see many of these around. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eLastly, beating inside this Wakmann is a Valjoux 723 movement, the most famous vintage high-quality chronograph movement!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1970's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41801975884,"sku":"","price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Wakmann_Albino_Triple_Calendar_Chronograph_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501833483"},{"product_id":"zenith-cairelli-a-m-i-italian-air-force","title":"Zenith Cairelli A.M.I. Italian Air Force","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhile military watches, and in particular military chronographs, have been in hot demand of late, there is no denying that even then, the Zenith CP-2 A.M.I. retailed by famed Roman supplier A. Cairelli is at the top of the heap. A rare and important timepiece, these were made according to military specifications in the late 60’s and early 70’s for the Italian Air Force, or A.M.I. (\u003ci\u003eAeronautica Militaire Italiana\u003c\/i\u003e). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSized at a hefty 43mm, the Zenith CP-2 certainly has a muscular, utilitarian presence on the wrist. Featuring a handsome black dial and aggressive bezel, the design remains very relevant and modern even today. Furthermore, with the added charm of a double-signed dial by A.Cairelli, it is no wonder this watch has become one of the hottest military chronographs to collect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e‘CP-2’ was the A.M.I’s designation for the wristwatches they issued, with ‘CP’ standing for \u003ci\u003e‘cronometro da polso’\u003c\/i\u003e, or ‘wrist chronometer’ in English. The Zenith CP-2 follows a lineage of previous issued wrist chronometers for the Italian Air Force with the -2 indicating that it was part of the second generation of timepieces. Other manufactures such as Leonidas, Breitling and Universal Geneve also made watches under the ‘CP’ designation for the A.M.I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eInterestingly, while it is estimated that only 2,500 examples were produced- the A.M.I. cancelled the majority of the orders before they were delivered and therefore many were not issued. A. Cairelli subsequently sold the remaining stock privately to civilians as unissued CP-2s.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis example though, is of the more desirable variant- as evidenced by the military numbers on it’s caseback. The engraved text ‘M.M’ (\u003ci\u003eMatricola Militaire\u003c\/i\u003e) translates to ‘military registration number’ which were not featured on the examples that were sold to civilians.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eBeating inside this Zenith Cairelli is the column wheel, manually wound Cal. 146DP made by movement makers Martel ,who at the time was owned by Zenith. It is a very attractive movement that later on served as the base to the revolutionary El Primero movement.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWith this Zenith CP-2 Cairelli, what you get is the perfect combination of historical importance, good looks and high quality.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Late 1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41802799372,"sku":"","price":16000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Zenith_Cairelli_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501834534"},{"product_id":"omega-fat-arrow-53-raf","title":"Omega 'Fat Arrow' 53 RAF CK 2777-1","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Omega CK2777-1 issued to the British Royal Air Force in 1953 is perhaps one of the highest quality timepieces ever produced for the military. Due to the need to withstand the strenuous conditions of flying in the RAF, they were made under strict specifications from the British MoD (Ministry of Defence). As a result, it had to be highly anti-magnetic, regulated to a chronometer grade and housed in a tough stainless steel case. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOriginally equipped with a radium dial, this example features a tritium ‘Fat Arrow’ dial. Because of the high radioactivity in radium, it was deemed unsafe to be used as luminous material and as such, the MoD recalled most of these timepieces in order to change to tritium. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFlip the watch around and you will be greeted with military markings, which I think is one of the most charming aspects of owning such a piece. It has a large broadarrow, indicating that it was government property, designation numbers (6B\/542) and beneath that its case number with the year (\/53) it was delivered. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe anti-magnetism of the CK2777-1 was achieved through the use of a thick iron dial (1mm), Mu-metal dust cap and iron caseback, forming a Faraday cage. If this sounds familiar, it is because this watch was the predecessor to the more famous Railmaster, released 4 years later. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMovement side, it is powered by a specially adjusted and chronometer graded Cal. 283. This accuracy was very important to the pilots as it was not only used to co-ordinate missions, but also to navigate. I am a big fan of military timepieces in general because they were made for a real need, where functionality determined form. While today in the military we have much more advanced technology, it was back then where the accuracy of your watch could save your life. Because of this, one often finds these vintage military timepieces to be incredibly simple yet high quality. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMade for only one year, these ‘Fat Arrow’ Omegas are becoming highly sought after due to both the important military provenance and 37mm wearability. Only 5900 pieces were produced.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1953","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41803883660,"sku":"","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Omega_FA_53_7053.jpg?v=1502781725"},{"product_id":"seiko-monopusher-chronograph","title":"Seiko Monopusher Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhen the name Seiko is mentioned, the first thought that comes to a watch collector’s mind is ‘value for money’, and with this Seiko Mono-pusher Chronograph Ref. 5717-8990, it is no different. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFirst produced in 1964 for the Tokyo Olympics, this was Seiko’s attempt as their official timekeeper to display their technology. Incidentally, this is the first chronograph Seiko ever produced and it is one of my favourite Seikos. It is a mono-pusher chronograph with no registers and a silver sunburst dial, giving off a very clean design. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eMovement wise, though it is simple in its construction, the Cal. 5717 movement is still a column wheel caliber, that is both robust and high in quality. Overall, this is a very attractive watch which is still very wearable today at 37mm. What you get at this price point is unbelievable value for money, that no Swiss company can provide.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1964","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809170828,"sku":"","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Seiko_Monpusher_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502077610"},{"product_id":"lemania-royal-navy-monopusher-chronograph","title":"Lemania Royal Navy Monopusher Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis Lemania Series 2 Monopusher Chronograph is a classic British military watch. Issued to the Royal Navy, it’s ‘0552’ caseback marking denotes that specifically, it was issued to the Fleet Air Arm Division. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThere are a few variations of Lemania chronographs that were issued to the Royal Navy, with the most popular one being the asymmetric cased Series III. While they are the most well known, the example you see is a much rarer, earlier Series II variant that has a symmetric case. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eLemania has a rich history of producing pieces for the military and this Series 2 Monopusher is one of the more iconic ones. Beating inside this watch is the famous column wheel Lemania 15 CHT. Completely gilded with accents of blue steel, it is a very attractive movement and doesn’t take an expert to be able to tell it is pure quality. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAt 38mm, the stepped case wears large on the wrist and has a big presence. This was important for the Fleet Air Arm, where legibility was one of the prerequisites and as a result, this Lemania is very wearable even by today's modern sizing standards. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Early 1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810441740,"sku":"","price":4300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Lemania_Monopusher_Chronograph_Royal_Navy.jpg?v=1501833522"},{"product_id":"mido-multi-centerchrono","title":"Mido Multi Centerchrono","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mido Multi-Centerchrono is in my opinion, one of the most elegant chronographs ever produced. A combination of details that I’ll mention all add up, making for a beautiful and quintessentially mid-century styled wristwatch. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eProduced in the 1940s, the Mido Multi-Centerchrono was unique in many regards where most strikingly, was it’s centralised layout. Traditionally, chronographs would have a subdial to provide a minutes counter but in the case of this Mido, it came with a central minutes totaliser, meaning that the 4th hand you see on the dial actually counts the minutes when the chronograph is running. This was achieved by using a base Valjoux VZ movement (the predecessor to the Valjoux 23) and modifying it into what Mido called the Cal. 1300. Not only is the design unusual, but it has the added aesthetics of looking like a split-seconds chronograph. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFurthermore, the Multi-Centerchrono’s case with it’s sharp angled lugs and sunburst engraved pushers were produced by Taubert et Fils, the successors to the case maker François Borgel who incidentally produced cases for Patek Philippe. If anyone thinks these look familiar it’s because the exact same pushers were used on Patek Philippe’s first waterproof chronograph, the Ref. 1463. These were also used on the Movado M90 and M95s. Adding to this, the case was made to be anti-magnetic by using an inner cage composed of the dial, a ring surrounding the movement and a dust cap. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mido Multi-Centerchrono came in many dial variants, with this example having one of the more attractive and rarer versions. A two-tone, multi-scale dial with a telemeter, tachymeter, 24 hour display and minuted counter, the information is all laid out in perfect proportion, separated through colours and sizes. Furthermore, interestingly this Mido has a Portuguese import stamp on the top left lug.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhat all of this translates to, is an incredibly beautiful, high quality and complicated watch at a very accessible price point. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1940's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41812116428,"sku":"","price":6250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Mido_Multi_Centerchrono_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502683987"},{"product_id":"moeris-blancpain-bathyscaphe","title":"Moeris 'Blancpain' Bathyscaphe","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis Moeris is simply a Blancpain Bathyscaphe rebranded. While it is more common to see the Waltham versions of these Bathyscaphes, the Moeris is hardly ever seen, making it much rarer than even the Blancpain. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIf you are thinking of a quintessential 50’s dive watch, this Moeris must be up there. Featuring a black glossy dial with large triangular lume markers, dagger hands, elongated lugs with large bevels and of course a perfect Bakelite bezel, this is what I think of when someone says ‘dive watch’. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAll of this adds up to make for a stunning watch on the wrist and this example is made even more special as it comes perfectly preserved, having never been worn before!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41813580492,"sku":"","price":2500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Moeris_Bathyscaphe_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501822854"},{"product_id":"hamilton-h-67-raf","title":"Hamilton 'H-67' RAF 3291","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Hamilton Hamilton 6B\/9614045 H-67 alongside its variants is known as the ‘Poor Man’s Mk 11’ due to it’s strong resemblance to the IWC and JLC Mk 11 and relatively accessible price point. After all, it was built according to the same specs and for those who are seeking an entry into military pieces, this is the best watch to start with. I say this because you get a lot of watch for the money. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThese Hamiltons were issued to the British Royal Air Force from the mid-60’s to the mid-70’s and came in a couple variants. This version, the 6B\/9614045 H-67 looks exactly the same as the more common 6B\/910-1000 H. The only differences is of course the caseback markings and also the H-67 came with a hacking movement. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAlthough exact production numbers are not known, through thorough research and collation of data,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ethe community at the Military Watch Forum (MWR) estimates that 1,000 H-67s were produced. The H-67s are extremely rare and I really do not see many pop up often. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWith caseback markings and that classic military design (black luminous dial, 36mm stainless steel case), this is a pure utilitarian watch that is still value for money. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41852456844,"sku":"","price":1900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Hamilton_H-67_3291_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1498376056"},{"product_id":"hamilton-6b-raf","title":"Hamilton 6B RAF 2813","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Hamilton 6B\/910-1000 H is known as the ‘Poor Man’s Mk 11’ due to it’s strong resemblance to the IWC and JLC Mk 11 and relatively accessible price point. After all, it was built according to the same specs and for those who are seeking an entry into military pieces, this is the best watch to start with. I say this because you get a lot of watch for the money. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThese Hamiltons were issued to the British Royal Air Force from the mid-60’s to the mid-70’s and came in a couple variants. This version, the 6B\/910-1000 H though not the rarest amongst the variants is one of the favourites amongst collectors due to it’s broadarrow and ’T’ stamped dial. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAlthough exact production numbers are not known, through thorough research and collation of data,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ethe community at the Military Watch Forum (MWR) estimates that 3,200 pieces were produced. Compare this to the approximately 9000 IWC Mk 11s that were issued, this is a very rare watch which costs a quarter of the price. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWith caseback markings and that classic military design (black luminous dial, 36mm stainless steel case), this is a pure utilitarian watch that is value for money.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41852795084,"sku":"","price":1600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Hamilton_6B_RAF_2813_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501651892"},{"product_id":"hamilton-h-67-raf-3289","title":"Hamilton 'H-67' RAF 3289","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Hamilton Hamilton 6B\/9614045 H-67 alongside its variants is known as the ‘Poor Man’s Mk 11’ due to it’s strong resemblance to the IWC and JLC Mk 11 and relatively accessible price point. After all, it was built according to the same specs and for those who are seeking an entry into military pieces, this is the best watch to start with. I say this because you get a lot of watch for the money. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThese Hamiltons were issued to the British Royal Air Force from the mid-60’s to the mid-70’s and came in a couple variants. This version, the 6B\/9614045 H-67 looks exactly the same as the more common 6B\/910-1000 H. The only differences is, of course, the caseback markings and also the H-67 came with a hacking movement. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAlthough exact production numbers are not known, through thorough research and collation of data,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003ethe community at the Military Watch Forum (MWR) estimates that 1,000 H-67s were produced. The H-67s are extremely rare and I really do not see many pop up often. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWith caseback markings and that classic military design (black luminous dial, 36mm stainless steel case), this is a pure utilitarian watch that is still value for money. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41855223052,"sku":"","price":1800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Hamilton_H67_RAF_3289.jpg?v=1506663545"},{"product_id":"minerva-gilt-gloss-vintage-chronograph","title":"Minerva Gilt Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOne of the must-haves for collectors in the past 12 months has been the glossy gilt chronograph and this Minerva is exactly that. It's easy to see why collectors have been going crazy for this style of watch as the black glossy dial and shiny gilt printing is just a joy to look at. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eHoused in a 35.5mm stainless steel case, this Minerva features thick syringe hands filled with lume that has aged to a very pleasing orange patina and similarly aged dot markers. 1965The dial reflects any light source, especially in the subdials where you get constant lines of light showing off its glossy face. Interestingly, towards the middle of the dial and surrounding the dot hour markers, the dial has speckled and gone golden tropical. Only visible in certain lights, this adds more depth to the already beautiful dial.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFlip the watch over, this Minerva houses an extremely rare Valjoux 71 movement. It is estimated that only a few thousand of these movements were made, making it much more sought after than its famous Valjoux 72 brother. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1940's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41886493580,"sku":"","price":5000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Minerva_Gilt_Chronograph_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501827007"},{"product_id":"zenith-a277-diver","title":"Zenith A 277 Diver","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI must say, that I am a sucker for the diver chronograph craze. For me, the Zenith A277 is one of the most photogenic watches I’ve come across, with its faded grey\/blue dial and bezel, muscular case and elongated minute track and hour indices. This is the real deal, everything you would want in a vintage, hand-wound diver chronograph. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eFurthermore, what is nice about this example is that it comes with its original Gay Frères ladder bracelet with correct end ‘ZF’ end links. If you know a thing or two about GF, is that they were the premier manufacturer of bracelets, making for the likes of Patek Philippe and Rolex.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI do think that the A277 proves to be much more interesting than its cousin, the Heuer Autavia, both in terms of rarity and aesthetics. While the Autavia craze continues, more under the radar pieces such as this A277 continue to be an attractive proposition. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThere are two variants of the A277. This example features blued steel subdial hands a thicker bezel like the one found on the Movado Super Subsea and a paddle chronograph hand with a fatter tail. The other variant came with gold subdial hands, a thinner bezel that was more prone to wear and a smaller paddle chronograph hand with a thin tail. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Zenith A277 is powered by one of the nicer chronograph movements to operate, the ‘in-house’ Cal. 146HP. I say ‘in-house’ in inverted commas because this movement was actually produced by Martel which also produced movements for Universal Genève- but in the 1960s, Zenith purchased Martel and amalgamated them into their manufacture. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eBeing one of the last manually wound calibers Zenith made before they transitioned into the El Primero era, they certainly did a great job in signing off on the hand-wound era. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1970","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41888515020,"sku":"","price":10500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Zenith-A277-GF-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1502441059"},{"product_id":"jardur-water-resistant-chronograph","title":"Jardur Water Resistant Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIf you love glossy gilt chronographs but don’t exactly want to pay today’s astronomical prices, this Jardur Watersport Chronograph might just be for you. The tradeoff is that you have a gold plated case, but it’s not all bad- gold plated watches provide some of the best value out there. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis Jardur comes with a multi-scale gilt dial that is glossy and full of character. The case measures 36mm, making it a very wearable and elegantly sized watch. Flip the watch around and you have an ever-reliable Landeron 248 beating away rounding it off as one of the best value props out there. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41889798220,"sku":"","price":1300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Jardur_Gilt_Chronograph_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501822568"},{"product_id":"longines-dirty-dozen-w-w-w","title":"Longines 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W.","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers. Amongst them, were brands such as IWC, Longines and Jaeger-LeCoultre and they had to follow the strict specifications set out by the MoD.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches, that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWithout a doubt, the favourite amongst collector’s is the Longines WWW. Perhaps due to its large 37.5mm stainless steel stepped case and stylised design (larger minute track, cathedral hands), I must say that it is also one of my favourites. On the wrist, the proportionality of the watch and the way it sits is really nice- it’s one of those things where you have to try one on to really know what I’m going on about.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIt is estimated that around 5000-8000 pieces were made, making it one of the rarer Dirty Dozen pieces. Furthermore, Longines was one of the few brands that practised engraving both the lug and caseback with case numbers and when these WWWs came back to the MoD watchmakers they were often changed around depending on the parts available, resulting in most examples in the market with mismatched numbers. Remember it was not in their interest to maintain originality, but instead to repair and send these pieces back out.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis example though, is made even rarer as it has matching numbers on the lug and caseback. As with all WWWs, I always say that it is not a matter of finding one, but finding one in top condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41950791884,"sku":"","price":5500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Longines_WWW_1198_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1519189947"},{"product_id":"eterna-dirty-dozen-w-w-w","title":"Eterna 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W.","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches, that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn the last few years, it has become a favourite amongst collectors to collect the entire set. While it is relatively easy to acquire most, there are a few brands that make completing the set a real challenge. On top of this, as these watches were issued to soldiers and used for their intended purpose, condition becomes everything, and let me tell you this- it is not easy to find WWWs in nice condition. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIncluded in the ‘not so easy to find’, is the Eterna WWW. The Eterna is probably the most under appreciated WWW watch. With an estimated production run of around 5000 pieces, this makes it the second rarest, behind the Grana. Yet, compared to the Longines and IWC, the Eterna can still be had for cheap.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003ePerhaps a real military connoisseurs watch, with this Eterna WWW, it really is a case of ‘if you know, you know.’\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41955965708,"sku":"","price":1850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Eterna_WWW_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502077650"},{"product_id":"hamilton-g-s-24-hour-dial","title":"Hamilton 'G.S.' 24-Hour Dial","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Hamilton G.S. is amongst the various Hammys issued to the British during the mid-60s to the mid-70s. These Hamiltons alongside its variants are known as the ‘Poor Man’s Mk 11’ due to its strong resemblance to the IWC and JLC Mk 11 and relatively accessible price point. After all, it was built according to the same specs and for those who are seeking an entry into military pieces, this is the best watch to start with. I say this because you get a lot of watch for the money.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe G.S. on the dial of this watch stands for General Service, and while the 6B variants were issued to the RAF, the G.S. versions were specifically made for government personnel. This included government agencies overseas, foreign and commonwealth office aid groups and for former military men who worked overseas on behalf of the British government.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis example is perhaps the rarest of all the Hamiltons- a G.S. with a 24-hour dial. Highly unusual, I have only come across a couple in the past few years. The differences from a standard G.S. is the sterile caseback and of course, the unique 24-hour dial where the Hamilton logo has shifted to 6 o’clock to make space for the extra text. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThere is not much information on these, but for the military collector and for those who know, this is a true grail. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41957407500,"sku":"","price":1600.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Hamilton_G.S._24_Hour_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1506663490"},{"product_id":"avia-incabloc-chronograph","title":"Avia Incabloc Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSports chronographs from the 60’s and 70’s have been all the rage for some time now and I do think it has a lot to do with the fact that you can buy something Hi in that style with almost any budget. All the way at the top with first execution Heuer Autavias to something more humble, but also very attractive like this Avia reverse panda chronograph. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFeaturing a solid 36mm  stainless steel case, all baby the magic is in the dial. Something about the 60’s where the nailed proportionality, this Avia has just the right amount of spacing and design cues to make it so pretty. The thick outer white track and the inner black glossy subdial combine to make one of the nicer reverse panda dials out there. I even rate these higher than the much more expensive Top Times.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis example comes in very honest condition, with its original crown and caseback engravings still very visible. The Landeron 149 is an economical movement but you can be sure it is a I love workhorse that will never fail you. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41958439884,"sku":"","price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Avia_Chronograph.jpg?v=1501825607"},{"product_id":"cyma-dirty-dozen-w-w-w-tropical","title":"Cyma 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W. Tropical","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches, that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAmongst the brands that produced for the MoD was Cyma. With production estimated at around 20,000 pieces, it is one of the easiest to find. That being said, coming from someone who has dealt and collected WWWs for awhile now, the Cyma is easiest my favourite partly because of its large 38mm case (the largest out of the dozen). The main reason though, is because you can get all kinds of Cyma WWW dials that have aged differently, making collecting these fun.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eI’ve had at least 10 Cymas in the past and they have all been different. Ranging from full on tropical brown to different toned subdials to perfectly black dials, you don’t get these variances in the other WWWs. Not to mention, because of how common they are, it is one of the most affordable vintage military watches out there. If I had to suggest a mil watch that provided the most value for money, it would have to be the Cyma WWW. What you get is an incredibly robust timepiece you can wear every day with the added fun of no one piece being the same.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIn my opinion, this is one of the nicer Cyma WWWs I’ve come across. It has one of the nicest tropical brown dials that photos cannot do justice. It is slightly metallic, with tints of grey and blue amidst the light brown. The lume is big and puffy and matching throughout.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41959250508,"sku":"","price":1900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Cyma_WWW_Tropical_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501836669"},{"product_id":"rolex-explorer-ref-1016","title":"Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThere is a reason why the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016 was one of Rolex’s longest production watches. Spanning a run from 1963 to 1990, with a few updates here and there, it is, without doubt, one of the purest Rolex sport models that underpins the entire Rolex ‘tool watch’ ethos. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe Explorer, named so after famously summiting Mount Everest in 1953, is, is as perfect as it gets. Perhaps one of the most beautifully proportioned and understated Rolex’s, utility was always taken into consideration. A simple yet reliable three hander, a highly legible dial with a great 3,6,9 layout, no date, and housed in a muscular 36mm stainless steel case, today the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016 is a vintage lover’s dream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhile Rolex began the 1016 production using glossy gilt dials, they transitioned to matte dials several years later. This example is an early matte dial Explorer, characteristically distinguished by it’s ‘frog’s foot’ dial, where the Rolex coronet resembles a frog’s foot. Furthermore, it has the non-hacking Cal. 1560 movement, another trait of early matte dial 1016s. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1968","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41960937420,"sku":"","price":10500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Rolex-Explorer-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1572823391"},{"product_id":"cyma-dirty-dozen-w-w-w","title":"Cyma 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W.","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches, that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAmongst the brands that produced for the MoD was Cyma. With production estimated at around 20,000 pieces, it is one of the easiest to find. That being said, coming from someone who has dealt and collected WWWs for awhile now, the Cyma is easiest my favourite partly because of its large 38mm case (the largest out of the dozen). The main reason though, is because you can get all kinds of Cyma WWW dials that have aged differently, making collecting these fun. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI’ve had at least 10 Cymas in the past and they have all been different. Ranging from full on tropical brown to different toned subdials to perfectly black dials, you don’t get these variances in the other WWWs. Not to mention, because of how common they are, it is one of the most affordable vintage military watches out there. If I had to suggest a mil watch that provided serious value for money, it would have to be the Cyma WWW. What you get is an incredibly robust timepiece you can wear everyday with the added fun of no one piece being the same. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis example has a beautiful black dial with a contrasting lighter subdial, another one of the many variations you can find with these Cymas. To top it off, the deep orange patina on the dial matches the hands perfectly. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41963744332,"sku":"","price":1750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Cyma_WWW_13357_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502776367"},{"product_id":"breguet-type-20","title":"Breguet Type 20","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBreguet has had a relationship with aviation for more than 100 years, supplying watches to both civilian and the military, and at the centre of it all is their flagship, the Type 20.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is known as the ‘Second Generation’ Type 20, first released in the 70’s and featured a completely new design to its predecessor. With a larger 40.7mm case with thick square lugs and a black anodised bezel, it was quintessentially 70’s in it’s styling. Initially intended to be used by the French Air Force, it was deemed too expensive and thus it was only sold to civilians.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThrough my correspondence with Emmanuel Breguet from the Breguet archives, he confirmed with me that this Breguet Type 20 was completed in 1976 and sold in 1977.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWhile we are all more familiar with the earlier first generation, steel bezel Type 20, the second generation is one rare bird. With its characteristically ‘Big Eye’ dial layout, where the right subdial is larger than the left, along with its leaf shape minute counter hand and flyback chronograph movement, this is unmistakably Breguet in it’s DNA.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI do feel these are somewhat under the radar, partly due to its rarity and the fact that Breguet on the whole didn’t make too many watches. That being said, there is a certain air of rarefied taste in wearing a vintage Breguet- understated, yet to those who know, it is something special.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1976","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42092272588,"sku":"","price":20500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Breguet_Type_20.jpg?v=1502682740"},{"product_id":"jaeger-lecoultre-polaris-e-859","title":"Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris E 859","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris Ref. E859 is one of the most iconic dive watches from the 20th century, and it’s not hard to see why. With it’s distinctive design and a production run of only 1714 pieces it is extremely rare and sought after by collectors. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOne of the pioneers of the alarm watch would have to be Jaeger-LeCoultre, famous for producing their Memovox line. While most of the Memovoxes made were dress watches and far cheaper, JLC began testing and prototyping underwater diving alarm watches in the 1960s. The result culminated in what you see here, the gigantic 42mm Polaris.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eIn order for the alarm to be heard underwater, JLC developed a patented triple caseback. The 16 holes seen on this caseback is to ensure the alarm and vibrations are amplified so the diver can both hear and feel when it is time to return to the surface. As a result, this watch is seriously loud.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003ePart of the Polaris’ charm lies in its iconic design, with huge exploding painted indexes, an inner rotating ring, and Ervin Piquerez supercompressor case with crosshatched crowns. This combined with its large size makes for an incredibly wearable watch by today’s standards. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis Jaeger-LeCoultre E859 Polaris is a true museum piece and for any serious dive watch enthusiast, this piece is a must.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1968","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42297346188,"sku":"","price":22000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Jaeger_LeCoultre_Polaris_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501819558"},{"product_id":"lemania-tg-195-swedish-military","title":"Lemania TG 195 Swedish Military","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Lemania TG 195 to this day remains somewhat a mystery. There are many theories as to where it was issued and what the enigmatic ‘TG 195’ represents, but there is still nothing conclusive. What we know for sure is that the Lemania TG 195s were delivered to the Swedish military in the 1950s, this example in 1954 as denoted by its caseback markings. The three crowns on the caseback, or Tre Kronor in Swedish, was the Swedish equivalent to the British broadarrow, used to denote property of the State.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eAs to which group of the military they were issued to, remains the mystery. Many have said these were issued to the Bomb Squad, but a collector recently pointed this to be problematic as there were not many Bomb Squad soldiers. Furthermore, the mysterious TG 195 on the dial also remains a mystery. Some have said that the TG stands for ‘Tid Givare’, which translates to ‘Giving Time’ with the meaning of the 195 not being determined. Others have said it stands for ‘TygGrupp 195’ or Task Group 195 which was a military storage site. There is still a lot to figure out with this interesting Lemania, but that is exactly what makes collecting vintage so rewarding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Lemania TG 195 is unique in that it is not a traditional chronograph. While it may look like a mono pusher chronograph, the Cal. 2225 is actually a hacking seconds watch with a special synchronisation function. Pressing the top pusher pops the crown out and resets the seconds hand to zero. Only by pushing the crown back in, the watch starts again. This was very useful in synchronising watches and it especially makes sense in a military context where timing is everything. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAesthetically, the TG 195s are so popular because of its muscular 40mm case and glossy gilt black dial. There is certainly a lot going for this watch, and in my opinion, it is one of the more interesting mil pieces, with the mystery adding to its appeal. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1954","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42300191180,"sku":"","price":4500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Lemania_TG_195_54-634_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502786049"},{"product_id":"zenith-a-279","title":"Zenith A 279","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eCollectors love oddities. A historically important period or an unusual design trait perhaps, all of which adds to the uniqueness of collecting vintage. Through the context in which it was produced, the Zenith A279 in my opinion, is such an oddity. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis watch was produced in the late 60s, a time period where watch manufacturers were racing to create the first automatic chronograph movement. As we know now, Zenith created the El Primero movement and a consortium consisting of Heuer, Buren, Breitling and Dubois-Depraz created the Calibre 11. This was seen to be the future and the Zenith A279, with its manually wound Cal. 146 DP was seen largely as an afterthought. Perhaps Zenith were even casing already made manually wound moments just to sell them off.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI say this because of the unusual components of the watch. Cased in what is a very standard stainless steel chronograph case of that era, there is a contradiction between that and the high-quality column wheel movement inside it. The watch could easily be mistaken to be a Valjoux 77 or Landeron 248.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn regards to the dial, there is a lot of depth to it. There is a contrast between the bright silver sunburst dial and the beautiful matte grainy subdials. Though same in colour, they reflect light differently, creating a nice two-tone effect. Combine this with the unusual wide-boy style lume hour markers, it is kind of a neither here nor there piece, exactly the kind of oddity that I love. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42301524364,"sku":"","price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Zenith_A279_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1502682794"},{"product_id":"wyler-incaflex","title":"Wyler Incaflex Dynawind","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe first thing that comes to my mind when I look at this Wyler Incaflex Dynawind, is value for money. A little know brand and model, this is one of those cases where if the brand was signed differently, it would be worth a whole lot more. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eBeginning with its glossy gilt black dial, it is in perfectly preserved condition. The triangular gold hour markers and dagger hands combine with the gilt text to produce a striking watch. Not only that, but the case is stepped, something that collectors of late have gone crazy about. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eDespite its small 32.5mm size, it is still very wearable and elegant on the wrist. At this price point, for a gilt glossy dial watch with a stepped case, you get a lot of watch for the money.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42304013132,"sku":"","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Wyler_Incaflex_Front_Shot.jpg?v=1501825369"},{"product_id":"breitling-co-pilot-7650","title":"Breitling Co-Pilot 7650","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eBreitling from the past is very different from the Breitling that we know of today and none exemplifies this idea better than the Co-Pilot chronographs. Slowly but surely, collectors are realising just how much quality came out of Breitling’s factory in St. Imier, and just like how 2016 propelled the Heuer Autavias and Omega Speedmasters, 2017 looks to be Breitling’s turn. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eIn the 1960’s, with all of the Swiss players releasing chronographs dedicated to sport, aviation and racing such as the Heuer Autavia, Rolex Daytona and Omega Speedmaster- Breitling’s response was the Co-Pilot. Born out of a trend for utilitarian sporty chronographs of the 60’s, this was the birth of the big and aggressive Breitling we know of that has trickled down to today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe Breitling Co-Pilot has all the tenets of what a vintage chronograph collector looks for. Reverse panda dial with luminous index markers and hands aged to a creamy patina, clean anodised aluminium hour bezel and a high-quality column wheel Venus 178 beating away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis particular example, is a later Ref. 7650, produced in 1969. Upsized from the previous Ref. 765 to a huge 42.5mm, it has a great wrist presence even by today’s standards. The result is a highly attractive and legible dial that provides great modern wearability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eA perfect watch for casual wear- rugged and masculine, wearing a Breitling has never been this cool. It certainly beats what’s on offer today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1969","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":128718471193,"sku":"","price":11400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Breitling-7650-Front-Shot_03fdc72f-c88c-43ef-9954-b246f551cfd1.jpg?v=1504013230"},{"product_id":"jaeger-lecoultre-mk-11","title":"Jaeger-LeCoultre Mk 11","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mk 11 wristwatch issued to the British Royal Air Force (RAF) was aviation’s equivalent to the marine chronometer- aptly nicknamed the air chronometer. Considered by many to be the original Pilot’s watch, it was made to the incredibly strict 6B\/346 specifications and was one of the costliest commissions for a wristwatch by a military. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eSome of the 6B\/346 specs included the need to be regulated or adjusted to a chronometer level, the need for a hacking function, for it to be waterproof and to be anti-magnetic. These all stemmed from real needs from pilot’s in the RAF who relied on these watches both for navigation and timing purposes. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Mk 11 watches can lay claim to be the first watch that was built from the ground up to be antimagnetic. With a thick iron dial and a soft iron dust cap, this created a Faraday cage, protecting the movement from any interference from the other equipment on the plane. It was, without doubt the most advanced watch issued to the military at the time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eTwo brands produced Mk 11 watch for the RAF, IWC and Jaeger-LeCoultre. While the IWC can be found with a bit of searching, the Jaeger-LeCoultre is extremely rare with only 2950 pieces produced. The JLC Mk 11 is considered one of the holy grails of military watch collecting and indeed one of the rarest. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe reason why so few were produced is an ironic one. The RAF preferred the IWC for it’s superior shock protection and discontinued the JLC production after only a couple of years. Besides this, I must say that the JLC Mk 11 is one of the most unusually beautiful military pieces with its bulbous case and elongated lugs, it works in great proportion on the wrist. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eInside the JLC Mk 11 is an impressive in-house, chronometer-grade JLC Caliber 488\/SBr. There were not many chronometer grade movements during that time, making this not only a rare JLC movement, but in general. If it looks familiar it’s because it’s unique design went on to morph into one of the highest regarded hand wind chronometers JLC produced, the 1958 Chronometré Geophysic. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1948","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":128919568409,"sku":"","price":10500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Jaeger-Mk-11-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1502425342"},{"product_id":"breitling-premier-ref-734","title":"Breitling 'Kronometer Stockholm' Premier Ref. 734","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eBreitling is a brand steeped in history, especially during the mid-century. A true pioneer, they were one of the first to produce wrist chronographs and also the first dual button chronograph. Amongst Breitling’s selection in the 1940s, the term ‘Premier’ was reserved for their higher-end chronographs, and this Ref. 734 was one of them. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile Breitling Premiers are special watches in their own right, this example is perhaps one of the most unusual and interesting. An extremely rare example, this Ref. 734 was retailed by Kronometer Stockholm, who were the official distributors for Breitling in Sweden. The difference lies in the dial, where there is a beautiful double stamping of Kronometer Stockholm’s crown logo beneath the Breitling logo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFurthermore, this is a huge watch. 37mm during the 40’s would’ve been considered oversized, and even today it remains one of the most legible and wearable watches. The dial is clean in its layout, aged to a lovely eggshell tone with beveled index markers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eInside the watch is the manually-wound, column wheel Venus Cal. 178, one of the higher quality ebauches available in the day. The combination of the unique double-signed dial, large size, and incredible condition, this is a true collectors’ piece. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":129524957209,"sku":"","price":5000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Breitling-Kronometer-734-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1526100068"},{"product_id":"breitling-surfboard-datora-ref-2031","title":"Breitling 'Surfboard' Datora Ref. 2031","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Breitling Datora Ref. 2031 is quintessentially 70’s Breitling in its design. In the 1970’s, the brand became a pioneer for loud designs with colour accents and interesting dials and was perhaps one of the more unique manufactures of the era. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eWith this example, it is no different. The Ref. 2031 Datora features a unique surfboard reverse panda dial with orange accents throughout. With a large 39mm case, it remains highly legible despite the design flourishes with thick index markers and high contrast white hands. The complexity of the design is finished off with a two-tone minute hour bezel making for a really beautiful watch with presence on the wrist. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWhile the earlier Breitlings have escalated in value, these have largely remained affordable because of the more economical Valjoux 7734 movement beating inside. So it goes without saying that with this Breitling Datora Ref. 2031, you get a lot of watch for the money.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1970's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":129950056473,"sku":"","price":3000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Breitling-_Surfboard_-Datora-Ref.-2031-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1504014757"},{"product_id":"omega-speedmaster-2998-6","title":"Omega Speedmaster 2998-6","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIf I were to ask a group of watch collectors what just might be the most iconic watch of all time, I guarantee quite a few will say the Omega Speedmaster. While it was initially intended as a wristwatch for racing, the Speedmaster is most famously known as the moon watch. This is because it was selected by NASA as their official watch, worn during the first American spacewalk as part of the Gemini 4 mission and was the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe selection process NASA went through to select a suitable wristwatch was vigorous. Between Rolex, Omega and Longines-Wittnauer, each watch went through testing in extreme conditions and as we all now know, the Omega Speedmaster came out as the most reliable and durable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis example is a very rare early variant, the Ref. 2998. Featuring alpha sword hands and straight lugs, as supposed to the more famous twisted asymmetric ‘Professional’ case shape with stick hands, this is a grail for many watch collectors. While it wasn’t until a few years later that the Speedmaster would officially enter space, the Ref. 2998 was worn by astronaut Wally Schirra aboard the Mercury-Atlas 8 (Sigma 7) as his personal watch in 1962. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eEarly Speedmasters are the most collectible for several reasons. Firstly because chronographs were not very popular during that period. They just didn’t produce many, making it much rarer than other models of the period. Another big reason lies inside the watch, specifically the famed Calibre 321. The column wheel 321 movement is legendary, developed by Lemania and it is one of the most celebrated movements and only found on early Speedmasters before they changed to the more economical cam-activated 861 movement in 1969. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIt is no surprise that these Speedmaster are so in demand as it blends historical importance, insane quality, rarity and straight up good looks into one piece. Whats not to love? \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1961","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":130550530073,"sku":"","price":25000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Omega-Speedmaster-2998-4-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1526438427"},{"product_id":"tollet-landeron-39-chronograph","title":"Tollet Landeron 39 Chronograph","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eOften, it is the little known brands, that made incredibly high quality watch that will give you the most value and this Tollet Chronograph is the perfect example. Powered by a very rare column wheel Landeron 39 movement, it is the details of this watch that makes it so great.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eFirstly, its large 38mm stainless steel case with fixed bars, it has sharp angular downturned lugs and rectangular pushers. The dial is two-toned, with the seconds track a shiny silver and red and blue accents on the perimeter scales. To top it off, it has beautiful Breguet like numerals and elegant leaf hands. If this watch had a bigger brand name on it, it would certainly be trading in multiples!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":130697003033,"sku":"","price":1000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Tollet-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1504013296"},{"product_id":"iwc-tropical-dirty-dozen-w-w-w","title":"IWC Tropical 'Dirty Dozen' W.W.W.","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Dirty Dozen. During the 40s, towards the tail-end of World War II, Britain’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) made custom orders from 12 manufacturers in Switzerland for military spec watches to equip its soldiers. Amongst them, were brands such as IWC, Longines and Jaeger-LeCoultre and they had to follow the strict specifications set out by the MoD. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThe watches needed to have a black dial with Arabic numerals, to be waterproof and luminous, regulated to a chronometer level and composed of a rugged stainless steel case. Furthermore, they had to have fixed bars, have a broadarrow on the dial, signifying that it was property of the government and also on the caseback which included other government serial numbers. Nicknamed the ‘Dirty Dozen’ by collectors, they were officially set out by the MoD as W.W.Ws, standing for ‘Watch, Wristlet, Waterproof’. The result was a group of 12 watches, that embodied the very idea of ‘purpose-built’, and it doesn’t get any more utilitarian than this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe IWC is one of the rarest and most sought after of the Dozen. With an estimated 5000-6000 pieces made, it is alongside the Eterna, the second rarest. Compared to it’s more popular Mk 11 younger sibling, the WWW is much harder to find. It is important to note that calling it the Mark X is a misnomer and was never named this. The correct name would simply be the IWC WWW. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eInterestingly, the IWC WWW was the only watch in the Dirty Dozen that featured a snap back case back. As to why this was the case is a mystery, as it would seem logical that the soldiers needed screw back waterproof timepieces. That being said, this is one of the tightest snap backs I’ve come across, and opening it is no easy task- I would certainly assume in order to be able to meet the MoD demands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis example is perhaps one of the most impressive IWC WWWs I’ve come across, with a beautifully aged tropical dial- I have never come across another making this quite unique. Finding an IWC WWW in good condition with it’s original dial is hard enough, but this tropical example makes it a real collector’s watch.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":130924871705,"sku":"","price":7800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/IWC-WWW-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1506852463"},{"product_id":"zenith-a-277-diver","title":"Zenith A 277 Diver","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eI must say, that I am a sucker for the diver chronograph craze. For me, the Zenith A277 is one of the most photogenic watches I’ve come across, with its faded grey\/blue dial and bezel, muscular case and elongated minute track and hour indices. This is the real deal, everything you would want in a vintage, hand-wound diver chronograph. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eI do think that the A277 proves to be much more interesting than its cousin, the Heuer Autavia, both in terms of rarity and aesthetics. While the Autavia craze continues, more under the radar pieces such as this A277 continue to be an attractive proposition. Something about the muscular case, reverse panda dial and elongated, downturned bevelled lugs that makes it a winner, just look at it! This example features a ghosted bezel, with a matching faded grey dial and a great case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Zenith A277 is powered by one of the nicer chronograph movements to operate, the ‘in-house’ Cal. 146HP. I say ‘in-house’ in inverted commas because this movement was actually produced by Martel which also produced movements for Universal Genève- but in the 1960s, Zenith purchased Martel and amalgamated them into their manufacture. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eBeing one of the last manually wound calibers Zenith made before they transitioned into the El Primero era, they certainly did a great job in signing off on the hand-wound era.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Late 1960s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":131433005081,"sku":"","price":9000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Zenith-A277_5c043377-d594-4ddd-9dfe-87faeb0d2801.jpg?v=1525392164"},{"product_id":"tudor-oyster-prince-black-waffle-ref-7909","title":"Tudor Oyster Prince 'Black Waffle' Ref. 7909","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Tudor brand was conceived in the late 40’s by Rolex in order to create a brand that made affordable watches with the quality that Rolex was known for. This was achieved by using outsourced ETA movements housed in Rolex cases, and the result was a success. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eAt the heart of Tudor’s line up was the Oyster Prince, a watch that featured an automatic movement inside an Oyster waterproof case. This was built with the intentions of being nothing else but a tool watch, and the fact that the Royal Navy issued Oyster Princes to their personnel for the famous scientific\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e expedition to North Greenland speaks volumes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis example is an early reference, the 7909. Not only that, while ordinary Oyster Princes can still be had for cheap, this is a very special example, featuring a black waffle dial. While black honeycomb dials are already rare, it is not very often that you come across a waffle dial, distinguished by the bigger square texture. Furthermore, the gold markers and hands have aged and developed to a maple syrup tone. The result is a beautiful and complex dial that you won’t see anywhere else.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":131678470169,"sku":"","price":3800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Tudor-Black-Waffle-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1504019949"},{"product_id":"meylan-decimal-chronograph-cal-321","title":"Meylan Decimal Chronograph Cal. 321","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Meylan Decimal Chronograph is a real oddity. The brand itself was a US based company that imported Swiss timepieces for the local market but interestingly, they also made a few pieces from Swiss parts in their day. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis chronograph you see is one of them, and it is one of the most balanced, beautiful chronographs of the era. For some reason, Meylan mostly made chronographs with decimal tracks and of late, chronographs featuring this have been very hot in the market. I do think it’s because decimal tracks are just downright good looking, especially this example where i1969t is accentuated in red. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAll the details of this stunning chronograph makes this watch so appealing, which includes unique paddle hour and minute hands, long bevelled lugs, a radial hour counter subdial and last but not least, a beastly movement beating inside. Open the watch up and you are greeted with a Lemania Cal. 2520, most famously known as the Omega Cal. 321. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWhat you get is a beautiful chronograph with a legendary movement inside.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":213569077273,"sku":"","price":2650.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Meylan-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1504013423"},{"product_id":"rolex-gmt-master-ref-1675-fuchsia","title":"Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 Fuchsia","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Rolex GMT-Master needs no introduction. It is perhaps the most iconic travel watch, allowing its wearer to simultaneously tell two time zones. Developed originally in the 1950’s for PanAm pilots, who had then begun flying transatlantic routes more frequently, this handy tool watch was vital in order to track home and local time. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis particular example is an amazing example of a GMT-Master. Featuring a Mark I dial, correct for its 1968 production year it comes with matching creamy lumes. Not only that, but characteristically to GMT-Masters made in the late 60s, it’s bezel has aged evenly from its original blue and red to fuchsia and sky blue. This bezel alone is highly sought after as not many aged as uniformly as this 1675.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eTo travel with a GMT-Master Ref.1675 on the wrist is certainly to travel in style, combining practicality with that mid-century cool. A genuine tool watch, I really do feel that the GMT function is the most practical complication to have on the wrist, even today. All it takes is one look at the wrist and you will be able to tell the time at your selected time zone. For someone like me, or I am sure many of you, who travels a lot or even conducts business on the other side of the world, a GMT-Master is without a doubt, a welcome tool. It certainly is faster than fumbling around with your iPhone to find out. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1968","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":773323620377,"sku":"","price":13000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Rolex-GMT-Master-Pink-Panther-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1506562939"},{"product_id":"jaeger-4atm-e-13001","title":"Jaeger 4ATM E.13001","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Jaeger 4 ATM was produced for the French watchmaker for a very short period between 1968 and 1971. This watch is certainly one of the more mysterious chronographs out there as to why it was produced, but with an estimation that less than 100 examples were produced, this is one of the rarest chronographs of the era. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eAs there is no official model name for this watch, it is nicknamed ‘4 ATM’ due to the engraving on the caseback denoting its depth rating. With a typical panda dial layout and large bevelled case, this is a classic chronograph from the 60’s reminiscent of many other sports watches of the time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis example has aged in a beautifully unique way- with the silver sunburst dial developing a champagne-toned patina and the black subdials fading into a purple-grey hue. This gives the 4 ATM an amazing depth as depending on the light, it reflects different tones.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003ePowered by the trusty Valjoux 72, it is a high-quality column wheel movement that is shared with watches such as the famous Rolex Daytona and Heuer Autavia, amongst others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eThis is truly an uncommon sports chronograph from the late 60’s and it is so rare, that to this day it remains largely under the radar.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1968","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1147801665561,"sku":"","price":11000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Jaeger-4-ATM-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1512554582"},{"product_id":"heuer-autavia-3646-second-execution","title":"Heuer Autavia 3646 'Second Execution'","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Heuer Autavia really needs no introduction. What was once seen as a cheap sports chronograph has, in the last 18 months become one of the hottest and most in-demand vintage watch in the market.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Autavia was released in 1962 under the new management of Jack Heuer, where the name was an amalgamation of the words ‘Automotive’ and ‘Aviation’. This was the first line that Jack Heuer released, even before the famed Carrera line, placing significance on the Autavia as the model that marked a new chapter for Heuer.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn fact, we’ve seen the Heuer brand go from strength to strength, with the most recent event being the thematic ‘Heuer Parade’ auction held by Phillips in Geneva. Fresh off the sale, Heuers, in general, have entered a new era where collectors that are usually more inclined towards Daytonas and Pateks are turning their attention to the Heuer name as a legitimate blue-chip brand.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThis listing features an extremely rare, early variation of the Autavia and it is known to collectors as the Ref. 3646 ‘Second Execution’. In general, the earlier the Autavia, the rarer and more desirable it is. A few of the distinguishing factors of this Autavia include the style of the dial with the alternating hash marks and dauphine hands. On top of this, the watch is housed in a screw back case with long bevelled lugs as supposed to the later, more common compressor cases. This example is a later version of the ‘Second Execution’ series, denoted by the ’T’ on the dial, indicating that by then, Heuer had transitioned from radium to tritium for their luminous material.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe Ref. 3646 Second Execution is a very attractive watch, with its classic reverse panda layout and elongated, bevelled lugs. A very easy watch to wear, it really does define the 60’s both in its styling and motorsport heritage. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1152143261721,"sku":"","price":25000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Heuer-Autavia-3646-Second-Execution-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1512554636"},{"product_id":"bulova-oversized-supercompressor","title":"Bulova Oversized Supercompressor","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eThe supercompressor case. Most recognisable through the use of double crowns at 2 and 4 o’clock, these are quintessentially 60’s\/70’s in its design. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eProduced by a single company, Ervin Piquerez EPSA, compressor cases used a new technology at the time where it used pressure to guarantee a watch’s water resistance. As you go deeper, the pressure gets higher, in theory, creating a tighter seal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eBecause of the iconic design and overall wearability, there is a real cult following for supercompressor watches as many brands used EPSA cases. As a result, you are able to find a whole variety of supercompressor watches with many different dial and hand designs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eAt the top, the most desirable and famous would have to be the Jaeger LeCoultre Polaris followed by models such as the Universal Geneve Polerouter Sub and Longines Diver Ref. 7042 who all produced their version of the supercompressor dive watch. While these are all high-end brands that warrant the high prices, other than the fact that not many were made, one other characteristic makes these desirable- the case size.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eMost supercompressors you will find are 36mm in size, but the aforementioned watches are significantly larger at 42mm. The 42mms are huge watches and have a real presence on the wrist. Even by today’s standard, they are considered large! What many do not know, is that other than those brands, there was one more that made these larger Supercompressors and yes, you’ve guessed it- Bulova. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eWhile Bulova also made 36mm supercompressors, which are in their own right fairly rare watches, the 42mm version is close to impossible to find. These are certainly undervalued and under the radar. As a result, despite being much rarer than most of the 42mm supercompressors out there, its price point is still very accessible, for now.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960's","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1155758817305,"sku":"","price":4500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1872\/9369\/products\/Bulova-Supercompressor-Front-Shot.jpg?v=1512554672"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.ssongwatches.com\/collections\/watches.oembed?page=29","provider":"S.Song Watches","version":"1.0","type":"link"}