Back in 1944 the British War Office was looking for a timepiece to replace the ATP (Army Trade Pattern) watches that had been in use since 1939. The new watch would be more suited for military use, with a waterproof case, black dial and enlarged face to allow for easier reading. The specification, known as WWW (wrist watch waterproof), was given to 12 Swiss watch manufacturers who each delivered a number of watches based on their manufacturing capacity. The resulting set of 12 watches has become know as the 'Dirty Dozen'.
This example is made by Timor, a smaller Swiss manufacturer that would find popularity in the 40s & 50s, but closed down during the second half of the 20th century. They have subsequently been revived as a brand.
Whilst these watches were ordered during WW2, many would be used long after the war by the British Army, and unfortunately the REME (Royal Electrical and Mechanic Engineers) responsible for the their maintenance and upkeep were not as interested in maintaining originality as we are today. The dial itself is an MOD replacement variant that would have been installed by the REME to remove the pesky radium used as lume on many WW2 watches. The hands are original to the watch, but the crown is a replacement.
The movement, which is the original Timor (but having just had it serviced I'm reluctant to open it again to provide images) is manual wind, and seems to last well for 24 hours, it'll just need a wind every morning if you plan to wear this regularly.
This also comes supplied with a very hard to find, and actually rather valuable Admiralty issued 1970s Nato Strap.
Condition
This is in amazing working condition, having recently been serviced by a well known vintage watch expert in the UK. I've timed it against a digital clock over 72 hours and it's approx +20s per day, which as anyone who collects vintage watches will tell you is pretty spectacular. The case itself is in used but good condition, no issues at all, and the crystal is clean and clear. The caseback does have a couple of scratches from opening/closing. All together a very good, accurate and very affordable example of these in demand watches that will only appreciate in value. Comes supplied with Admiralty nato strap and box.
Size
- 35.5mm (without crown)
- Watch strap measures 8.5" to the from the buckle to largest hole.