My word, things I never thought I would have in my possession. If you're a watch guy, a navy guy, a UDT guy, a military watch guy, or just a guy with amazing taste, this one is for you. The earliest military dive watch, and the forerunner of the Submariner, Fifty Fathoms and all the other dive watches that followed. These were developed as part of the equipment for OSS and UDT divers, the forerunners of today's CIA and Navy Seals respectively. A simple solution to the problem of keeping a watch dry, the guys at Elgin took an A11 watch and created a large screw down lid for the crown and additional solder seal for the crystal. One of the most iconic military timepieces of all time, and rare as they come.
This came to me in a rough state, a real raw pick - my watch guy thought it had never been serviced - but the movement was running. It's now been fully serviced and is keeping great time - I tested it today over 24 hours and it kept amazing time, slightly fast by 20secs. The rubber gasket inside the crown cover has been replaced, and the base of the crown cover and tube securing the cover mechanism to the case have both been re-soldered as they had separated. The crystal is original and exactly as issued - replacing the crystal is possible but would involve removing the original solder seal - I wanted to keep this as original as possible.
The original Elgin USN Buships signed dial is in nice shape with a little wear to the outer edge that isn't visible when in the case. It's complete with the original moisture strip between the 7 & 8 - this has often been removed. The hands are also great with original lume.
The original Elgin 539 movement runs nicely, and the serial number dates it to 1943/44.
This is one of the most original and complete of these I've seen. Its comes on a deadstock military watch strap.
Whilst every effort has been made to restore this piece, it's an 80 year old watch and should be treated accordingly. It's should be worn with care, DO NOT GO DIVING IN IT (can't say that enough), It's unlikely to be waterproof, and I would not recommend this a daily wearing watch.
Size
- 32mm without the crown