Trench watches emerged during World War I as a practical solution for soldiers in the trenches. Prior to this, wristwatches were often considered feminine accessories, with most men relying on pocket watches. However, the demands of warfare necessitated a more accessible timekeeping method. Soldiers needed to quickly check the time without fumbling through their uniforms.
    
In response, manufacturers began producing robust wristwatches designed for durability and readability. These timepieces featured luminous dials and protective cases, ensuring they could withstand harsh conditions. Notable brands like Cartier and Panerai played pivotal roles in popularizing trench watches.
    
After the war, these functional designs transitioned into civilian life, influencing modern watch aesthetics. The trench watch's blend of utility and style laid the groundwork for contemporary sports and pilot watches. Today, they are celebrated not only as historical artifacts but also as timeless pieces that embody resilience and innovation in watchmaking history.

What's on Offer

This trench-style watch is in superb condition, the porcelain dial has been incredibly well-preserved and boasts Breguet-Style Arabic numerals, a sub-seconds dial at 6 o'clock and an outer minute track. It also features stylish blued steel hands and of course the red 12. Red 12s were commonly used on early wristwatches: 

"The real reason for the red and blue 12s on early wristwatches is because they were the paradoxical combination of a savonnette (hunter) movements in Lépine (open face) cases. Because they were open face they looked at first glance like a Lépine open face watch adopted for wrist wear, but they weren't and the 12 was in a different place to where it could be found on a normal Lépine watch, so the 12 was picked out in colour to draw attention to this." Source 

Whilst I cannot find any information about LadySmith watches as a brand, the siege of Ladysmith was likely significant as we think the watch dates to the early 1900s. 

The siege was a protracted engagement in the Second Boer War, taking place between 2 November 1899 and 28 February 1900 at Ladysmith, Natal.

If you can shed any further light on this watch then we would love to hear from you! By the by, this is a stunning vintage piece and would be a great addition to any collection!