***NOW SOLD***

A Superb c.1944 Vertex WWW 'Dirty Dozen' - British Ministry of Defence Issued WWII Wristwatch in Superb, Original Condition.

As fighting on both the WWII Eastern and Western fronts showed signs of turning in the Allies' favour, many members of the British armed forces were issued with a basic but carefully specified watch, commissioned from 12 Swiss manufacturers by the British Ministry of Defence (MoD). These were ultimately to replace the earlier issued 'ATP' series watches from earlier in the war, and have become even more collectable and desirable than this already beloved collection, thanks to their larger and more sturdy manufacture. 

Though there are some slight differences between the dozen, they were produced to tight specifications; designed to be waterproof, have fixed lug bars, numbers and indices, a matte black dial with luminescent hands and an extremely accurate and reliable movement, manually wound. 

What's on offer

A beautiful, highly collectable piece of wearable history, this fine Vertex was more than likely issued to a British soldier fighting in WWII. The watch is one of 12 'Dirty Dozen' watches which are much sought after as there are increasingly few for sale, and certainly in this kind of condition. Collectors worldwide seek to complete 'Full sets' of the Dirty Dozen so this is a fantastic opportunity to purchase a well-preserved example. 

The synonymous black dial boasts a crisp outer minute track, pristine Arabic numerals a recessed sub-seconds dial and the pheon which denotes the watch as military property. The original lume is intact on some of the hour plots and has aged to nice buttery colour. Although the lume has deteriorated on the hands, it is original and the fact any of it has survived is rather remarkable, and just adds to its vintage charm. It is, after all, over 78 years old and was intended for use during military combat. 

The case too is impressive with no significant marks to mention. The caseback is engraved with WWW A 1034 3513950. This watch has recently been serviced and is running well, a great buy which won't be around for long.

Additional information

Made from

Case: Chrome Top

Case back: Screw on

Dial: Black

Crystal: Shatter-proof plexi

Bracelet: NATO military-style strap 

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical

Calibre: 59

Jewels: 15j

Waterproof: When new!

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent unpolished condition with crisp case edges. The watch has some signs of wear in accordance with its age. 

Model Reference: WWW

Date of issue: c.1944

Warranty: 12 Months by VWS

Dimensions

Width: 35mm

Lug width: 18mm

Lug height (lug to lug): 47mm

Wrist size: Adjustable

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