Roamer, founded in Switzerland in 1888, built its reputation on producing robust, dependable mechanical watches. That reliability led to military use beyond Europe, including service with forces in Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe. Issued to military personnel, Roamer watches were valued for their durability, legibility and straightforward functionality in demanding conditions. These Rhodesian-issued military timepieces reflect Roamer’s practical watchmaking heritage and stand today as distinctive artefacts of mid-20th-century military history. 

This issued watch from Roamer bears quite an interesting back story that involves the military and smuggling. During a civilian conflict also known as the Zimbabwe War of Liberation between 1964 & 1979, major sanctions were put on the country preventing the import of certain luxury goods such as watches to the open market. The military called on their South African allies to supply watches to them for them to use in combat situations. These Rhodesian issued military Roamers were engraved with Z, ZA, SFA, or RA markings, and here we have a Z marked watch (Z3319).

What's on Offer

This Roamer Anfibio is a well-preserved military-issued tool watch from the early 1970s, produced during the period of Rhodesian conflict. The Anfibio line was developed by Roamer as a robust, water-resistant watch designed for demanding environments, combining practical durability with clear, legible design. These qualities made it well suited to military and field use.

The stainless steel case remains in excellent condition, showing only light, honest wear while retaining strong, purposeful lines. The caseback engravings are crisp and clearly legible, reinforcing the watch’s military provenance. The black dial is clean and functional, with bold Arabic numerals and original luminous material still present on the hands and numerals, adding authentic character.

Protected beneath a Plexiglas crystal, the watch runs smoothly via its manually wound movement. Paired with a green NATO-style strap, this Anfibio wears comfortably and confidently. A highly wearable and increasingly collectible military timepiece with genuine historical significance. This is only the 3rd watch we have come across in 43 years of collecting watches!