13th Nov, 2021 9:30 GMT/BST

Fine Jewellery, Watches & Silver

 
  Lot 2197
 

2197

A World War II Military Wristwatch, signed Eterna, known by collectors as one of ''The Dirty Dozen'', circa 1944, (calibre 520) lever movement signed and numbered 3090149, inner dust cap, black dial with luminous Arabic numerals, signed and with a military broad arrow, seconds dial, luminous hands, stainless steel case with screw back engraved with a broad arrow WWW P 391 3108719, fixed bars between the lugs, inside back cover numbered 3108719, broad arrow P 391 and maker's mark Eterna Watch Co Swiss, 36mm wide

'The Dirty Dozen' is the name given to a group of 12 watches commissioned by the Ministry of Defence for use by soldiers during WWII. The MoD ordered custom-built wristwatches from 12 Swiss watchmakers: Buren, Cyma, Eterna, Grana, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Lemania, Longines, IWC, Omega, Record, Timor and Vertex. Each company was given the specific brief of providing watches that were accurate, reliable and durable, with a black dial, Arabic numerals, luminous markers, a railroad minute track, shatterproof glass and a stainless-steel case. No matter the maker, these watches can be identified by the engraved 'W.W.W.' on the reverse, as well as the broad arrowhead mark on the dial, inner case, and reverse, and both military and civil serial numbers on the reverse.

Sold for £1,200
Estimated at £700 - £900


 

Case with surface scratches and small dents to edges in parts, back cover with opening tool scratches, plexi glass with scratches and small crazing marks to the edges, later strap, original dial finish with good patina colour to the luminous hour markers, minute hand with some luminous missing, hand setting correctly and winding smoothly, movement in going order.

 


We are happy to provide Condition Reports to prospective buyers, but would welcome your request as soon as possible, preferably at least 48 hours before the Day of Sale. We cannot guarantee a reply to any requests made within 48 hours of the start of the auction. The absence of a Condition Report from a lot does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition. A Condition Report is an honest expression of our opinion, not a statement of fact and is provided as a service to the seller. All lots are available on public view ahead of an auction and we encourage prospective buyers to inspect an item in person where possible. Our Condition Reports are not prepared by professional conservators, restorers, or engineers, and are prepared with the naked eye unless otherwise stated.

Regarding Pictures, Prints and Works on Paper, works are not examined out of the frame, unless specifically stated. Tennants Auctioneers do not cover damage to gilded wood or plaster picture frames, or to picture frame glass whilst the item is in our possession.

We accept no liability for the opinions expressed in any Condition Report.

Auction: Fine Jewellery, Watches & Silver, 13th Nov, 2021

Fine Jewellery, Watches and Silver Sales are held three times a year, coinciding with the Fine Sales. They offer the top tier of consignments, focusing on important diamonds, fine period and designer jewellery, the most desirable vintage and modern luxury watches by top makers and fine pieces of period silver.

Entries are invited for forthcoming sales.

 

Viewing

Sunday 7 November 11am-4pm, Monday 8 November to Thursday 11 November 10am-4pm, Friday 12 November 10am-5pm and morning of sale from 8.30am (Silver section from 8am)

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