Jaeger-LeCoultre Officer's Watch

Mankind has an almost inexhaustible capacity for innovation, and perhaps nothing illustrates that ingenuity better than the tools and technologies developed during wartime. The Second World War birthed sonar, radar, programmable computers, nylon, jet engines, and even the Slinky. In the realm of horology, the military watches produced by Jaeger-LeCoultre during this war--purpose-built and meant to withstand the rigors of wartime--endure as testaments to the cleverness of the human spirit. 

In the waning years of the Second World War, the British Ministry of Defense commissioned twelve major watch manufacturers to produce durable timepieces that could withstand the rigors of combat while keeping accurate time. The "Dirty Dozen," as these twelve manufacturers came to be called by collectors, produced the "Watch Wristlet Waterproof," which combined a spartan exterior with a robust, no-frills movement. Jaeger-LeCoultre answered that call and produced the Reference 6B/159, powered by the Caliber 479. 

However, at the same time JLC manufactured the W.W.W., the brand developed another series of military watches that saw service from 1940 to 1946. The Mark VII and Mark VIIA were veritable tool watches that made their way onto the wrists of many British and Allied pilots and soldiers. These war-time pieces were driven by the Calibre 470, a sturdy and very accurate precursor to the movement used in the Mark XI (also produced by IWC) and the Geophysic.

These watches can be distinguished from their W.W.W. brethren by the absence of sub-seconds (found in the Caliber 469 and the 479). However, like their military counterparts, these watches bore bold, luminescent Arabic numerals. As legibility was a watch-word (particularly for a watch that might see service in a dimly-lit cockpit), the numerals and hands were liberally coated with Radium.

This example features a compact-yet-sturdy steel case that has weathered the years with grace. The radium on the numerals and hands is intact, the dial devoid of any noteworthy burns that so often mar radium dials of this period. The movement serial number is in the 300,000 series that puts the production year circa 1943, making it a true veteran and a faithful companion to the wearer in all life's battles. 

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.