A Well Preserved Vertex Dirty Dozen WWW2 Military Watch in Original Condition with Military Engravings. C.1944 With Matching Lug Numbers!

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During 1944 and 1945, twelve watchmakers (Buren, Cyma, Eterna, Grana, JLC, Lemania, Longines, IWC, Omega, Record, Timor and Vertex) produced a total of approximately 150,000 of these almost identical timepieces. Though there are subtle differences, they were built to tight specifications- designed to be waterproof, have fixed lug bars, numbers and indices, a matte black dial with luminescent hands (made initially of radium) and a small, functional and reliable movement. As these watches became highly sought after by collectors over the ensuing decades, they became known as ‘The Dirty Dozen’ - earning this nickname from the 1964 war film of the same moniker. 

This watch represents one of only around 15,000 of the watches made by Vertex, of the approximate 150,000 watches made for the war effort, making the watches produced by the brand in high demand due to only being a tenth of production. 

What's on offer

This is an excellent example of the Vertex member of the 'Dirty Dozen' family, which are getting more difficult to source by the day, especially in such good condition. The dial on this watch has been very well preserved and remains a rich black colour with barely any signs of wear. The Arabic numerals are still crisp as is the outer chapter ring. The recessed seconds subdial looks well and the hands, as well as the hour plots, still retain their original lume and of course, the military arrow is present on the dial denoting this watch as property of the crown. The case does show some signs of wear but nothing we wouldn't expect from a vintage tool watch which more than likely saw military action in World War 2. On the caseback you will see the original military markings one would expect, they read: WWW /I\ A 819 3513735. The jewel in the crown of this watch, is that it boasts match case and lug numbers - this is really quite rare and makes it even more collectable! 

This watch would make an exceptional addition to any collection. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Chrome Top

Case back: Screw on

Dial: Black

Crystal: Shatter-proof plexi

Bracelet: NATO Military-style 

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical

Calibre: Calibre 59

Jewels: 15

Waterproof: 

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent

Model Reference: WWW

Date of issue: 1944/45

Warranty: 12 Months VWS

Dimensions

Width: 35mm

Lug width: 18mm

Lug height (lug to lug): 47mm

Wrist size: Adjustable