A Remarkable Smiths W10 British Army-Issued Military Watch - Made in England - Caseback Markings: W10/6645-99-961-4045 /I\ 2059/67

If the Smiths name seems familiar to you, then it’s rightly so. Rumour has it that it was in fact a Smiths watch that was strapped to the wrist of Sir Edmund Hillary on his ascent to the peak of Everest yet some argue it was in fact the Rolex Explorer. Myths aside, Smiths' watches have been in and amongst the action since being founded by Samuel Smith in 1851. From being regularly seen in cockpits to the dashboard of a vehicle, their precision and excellence have always been of the highest order. It wasn’t until the end of World War II that the firm began producing wristwatches. Throughout the '50s, '60s & '70s Smiths held contracts to supply watches to the Ministry of Defence with the W10 being one of the most famous and recognisable.

What's on offer

Being legible in the field is of course crucial and the Smiths W10 doesn’t disappoint. Built to MoD specs, the dial is a stark black affair with Arabic indices and a broad arrow above 6 o’clock which denotes the property of the crown.  Beating inside the 'English Made' watch is the in-house 60466E 17-jewel movement which is common in such pieces from the period. Reissues of these legendary watches are available and although they are a fine reproduction, they don’t have the same charm and charisma as an original such as this. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Stainless steel

Dial: Black

Crystal: Plexiglass

Bracelet: New NATO military-style strap

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual wind

Movement Type: Mechanical 

Caliber: 60466E

Jewels: 17

Waterproof: When new

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent condition

Model Reference Number: W10/6645-99-961-4045 /I\ 2059/67

Date of issue: 1967

Guarantee: 12 Months by VWS

Dimensions

Width: 35mm

Lug width: 17mm

Lug height (lug to lug): 46.5mm

Wrist size: Adjustable