Watch, wrist (waterproof)
Watch, wrist (waterproof)
£350.00
In May 1943 the Navy ordered the formation of the Naval Combat Demolition Units (NCDUs) to do reconnaissance of beach conditions and removal of submerged obstructions in advance of amphibious operations.
This lead to the requirement for a watch that could withstand rough underwater duty and subsequently Navy specification 18 W 8 (INT) Watches, wrist (waterproof) was drawn in December 1, 1944. The Navy, setting a new benchmark for technical specifications, required procurement of a waterproof watch that could withstand submerged pressure testing.
This spec resulted in the production of the USN BU SHIPS watches, featuring a legible dial and crown with screw-on cap designed to prevent water from penetrating through the winding crown. The cap was attached with a chain to the case thus effectively nicknaming this fine timepiece a “Canteen” watch.
The watches had a black dial with luminous numbers and hands and according to the amended spec. 18 W 8 (SHIPS) dated Feb. 15, 1948, they should have markings for USN and BU SHIPS on the dial and on the back of the case. This model, made primarily by Elgin, Hamilton and Bulova, aka the “Navy Canteen” or “Frogman watch” is the most collectible of all U.S. WWII watches.
This faithful reproduction of Elgin’s version of the watch is an instant classic and pays homage to the original. We went into great lengths to be able to offer this remarkably well executed iconic time instrument. Elgin’s originals run with a hand winding 539 or 647 movement type (which required winding every 36-48 hours) but to adapt to modern day’s needs, (and make your life easier) the reproduction uses a Swiss Quartz movement instead.
The watch features:
- Stainless steel case
- Case diameter 32 mm
- Lumed classic black dial with Arabic numerals
- Lumed hands
- Domed mineral glass crystal
- Crown with screw on cap
- 9 inches long olive green one-piece strap canvas band 16mm wide with sewn eyelets
- Swiss Quartz movement (with approx. 2 years life battery)
- 10 ATM water resistant
Shipping to USA only.
Out of stock