A Well-Preserved WW2 Buren Dirty Dozen Soldiers Watch in Nice Vintage Condition with Original Military Markings 

In the closing years of World War II, a basic but carefully specified model wristwatch was commissioned for members of the British armed forces by the Ministry of Defence - manufactured by one of twelve watchmakers who delivered the pieces in 1944 and 1945. These manufacturers (Buren, Cyma, Eterna, Grana, JLC, Lemania, Longines, IWC, Omega, Record, Timor and Vertex) later came to be known as ‘The Dirty Dozen’ in the mid-1960s, after the release of the popular war film of the same name. Out of the circa 150,000 watches delivered, only circa 11,000 Buren branded watches were produced compared with Omega or Record who for example produced around 25,000 examples each of the approximate 150,000 watches.

What’s On Offer 

This is a really nice example of the Buren Dirty Dozen with beautifully aged hour plots and hands with original lume. The Bold Arabic numerals are all intact as is the recessed seconds dial at 6 o'clock. The dial is completed by the Buren signature and the military pheon which denotes the watch as the property of the MoD which is also present on the caseback along with its military engravings which read: WWW P 7256 12256. 

The watch is in great shape with just a little wear to the case which of course adds to its vintage appeal. It is still very much wearable, running well and keeping good time, an absolute must for any Dirty Dozen collector, but a beautiful piece for any military or vintage enthusiast too. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Chrome Topped

Dial: Black

Crystal: Plexiglas

Bracelet: NATO

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical

Calibre: 462

Jewels: 15

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent

Model Reference: WWW

Date of issue: c.1945

Warranty: 12 Months VWS

Dimensions

Width: 36.5mm

Lug width: 18mm

Lug height: (lug to lug)

Wrist size: Adjustable