A RemarkableSmiths W10 British Army-Issued Military Watch – Made in England – Caseback Markings: W10/6645-99-961-4045 /I\3612/69

If the Smiths name seems familiar to you, then its 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 to a vehicle’s dashboard, their precision and excellence have always been of the highest order. It wasnt 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

Being legible in the field is of course crucial and the Smiths W10 doesnt disappoint. Built to MoD specs, the dial is a stark black affair with Arabic indices and a broad arrow above 6 oclock which denotes the property of the crown. Beating inside the ‘English Made’ watch is the in-house 60466E 17-jewel movement which is common in such pieces from the period. Reissues of these legendary watches are available and although they are a fine reproduction, they dont have the same charmand charisma as an original such as this.

This is a particularly nice example insuperb condition. The rich black dial is blemish-free and provides the perfect contrast for the stunning lume on the hour indices which a warm buttery hue. The lume in the slim pencil hands has also survived the years and looks well. The Arabic numerals are crisp as are the outer minute track and the military pheon. A well-preserved piece of military history in great condition and just back from service is running well and keeping good time. This would undoubtedly bring any military enthusiast a lot of joy.

It is running well and keeping good time thanks to a recent service by renowned military watch expert, John Senior. Since taking the photos for this listing we can confirm that the plexiglass has also been replaced with a NOS one, as it was cracked whilst in storage!