Smiths W10 - British Army Issued Military Wristwatch - Issued 1968
A stunning example of a Smiths W10, British Army Issued Watch - Made in England, c.1968 - Caseback Markings: W10/6645-99-961-4045 2329/68
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 of fighter planes to the dashboard of a motor 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
This is a superb example of the Smith W10 military watch. The lume is intact on both the hour plots and the pencil hands and has evenly aged to an incredibly attractive vanilla hue, which is set off perfectly by the rich black dial. This will undoubtedly continue to age wonderfully over the coming years. The Arabic numerals, Smiths' signature with Tritium marking and synonymous arrow dial details, have been preserved wonderfully and the case has also faired well over the years remaining in remarkably good condition given the age of the piece and its intended use! A really enjoyable watch on the wrist that oozes historical provenance and quality, this British icon is a wonderful piece to add to a collection or even a fantastic starting point as you delve into the military watch world.
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: 17j
Waterproof: When new
Purchase details
Condition: Excellent condition
Model Reference Number: W10
Date of issue: 1968
Guarantee: 12 Months by VWS
Dimensions
Width: 35mm
Lug width: 17mm
Lug height (lug to lug): 46.5mm
Wrist size: Adjustable
