Few military wristwatches are quite as imposing, or as historically recognisable, as the German Beobachtungsuhr, better known to collectors as the B-Uhr.

Developed for the German Luftwaffe during the Second World War, these oversized observation watches were intended for navigators and other aircrew who relied upon accurate, easily readable timekeeping during flight.

At an extraordinary 55mm across, the B-Uhr was designed with function firmly ahead of fashion. Its enormous dial could be read quickly in difficult lighting conditions, while the oversized crown allowed the watch to be operated when wearing gloves. The extra-long leather strap enabled it to be secured over flying clothing.

Five manufacturers are associated with the wartime B-Uhr programme: A. Lange & Söhne, Laco, Stowa, Wempe and IWC.

Among them, A. Lange & Söhne was already an established name in German precision watchmaking, having been founded in Glashütte in 1845 by Ferdinand Adolph Lange.

Two principal dial configurations were produced during the war. The earlier Type A design featured Arabic hour numerals and a prominent triangle at 12 o'clock, while the later Type B introduced a more elaborate arrangement with an outer minute scale and inner hour ring.

Today, surviving wartime B-Uhren are highly sought after by collectors of military watches, aviation history and German watchmaking.

What's on Offer

Here we have an impressive A. Lange & Söhne German Luftwaffe B-Uhr Type A observer's watch, dating to the Second World War.

Measuring an extraordinary 55mm across, this is a substantial piece of military horology, with a commanding presence that immediately distinguishes it from conventional wristwatches of the period.

The large, round base-metal case features a practical, understated finish, with broad lugs and an oversized onion-style crown. The latter was specifically suited to operation with gloved hands, an essential consideration for wartime aviation.

The black Type A dial is wonderfully purposeful, featuring large Arabic numerals, a distinctive triangular marker at 12 o'clock and a bold minute track around its perimeter.

The luminous numerals and markers have developed an attractive warm patina, providing a striking contrast against the dark dial. The hands are similarly distinctive, retaining their characteristic aviation-watch appearance.

There are visible marks of age to the dial and crystal, entirely in keeping with a watch of this period and military background.

Military Markings and Identification

One of the most important features of this example is the FL 23883 marking engraved into the side of the case.

This is the Luftwaffe equipment identification associated with B-Uhr observation watches. The FL prefix relates to aviation equipment, while the 23 classification identifies navigation-related instruments.

The caseback also carries identifying numbers, with the supplied information indicating that the movement number corresponds to the number recorded on the case.

Inside the caseback is the equipment designation Gerät-Nr. 127-560 A-1, associated with the A. Lange & Söhne B-Uhr.

Together, these markings are important identifying features of the watch and contribute significantly to its historical interest.

An Interesting British Connection

This particular watch also comes with a fascinating piece of family provenance.

It was acquired from the family of a British Second World War veteran who served with a communications unit and travelled to numerous military sites across Europe towards the end of the conflict.

During his service, he assembled a collection of wartime artefacts, among which was this remarkable observer's watch.

Although the precise circumstances in which the watch came into his possession are unknown, its association with the veteran's collection adds another interesting chapter to its history.

For collectors, this connection offers a tangible link between a German wartime instrument and the experiences of a British serviceman during the closing stages of the war.

Movement and Strap

Powering the watch is the A. Lange & Söhne Calibre 48.1, a manually wound movement developed for these substantial observation watches.

The movement has recently been serviced and is running well, with a recorded timegrapher reading of approximately +10 seconds per day and an amplitude of 306 degrees.

The watch is fitted with a bespoke, extra-long leather strap made from vintage black leather, incorporating the characteristic double-riveted construction associated with wartime observer's watches.

Its generous proportions and distinctive strap arrangement preserve the unmistakable appearance of the original aviation instrument.

With its imposing dimensions, Type A dial, Luftwaffe equipment markings and British veteran provenance, this A. Lange & Söhne B-Uhr represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a historically important example of wartime German watchmaking.

Condition Report:

Crystal: Very Good

Dial: Very Good

Bezel: Very Good

Case: Very Good

Movement: Serviced +10s/d 306°

Overall: Very Good