1950’s Wittnauer Military 24 Hour Dial Manual Wind Cal. 11ES

While often remembered as the American partner to Longines, Wittnauer was a formidable watchmaker in its own right, with a rich history in aviation and military timekeeping. For decades, the Longines-Wittnauer relationship resulted in watches that offered exceptional Swiss quality and robust, purpose-built design to the American market. This fantastic 1950s field watch is a perfect example of that legacy, a pure, no-nonsense tool watch with an incredible amount of vintage character.

The years following World War II saw a surge in popularity for military-inspired wristwatches. The general public had come to appreciate the simple, legible, and tough-as-nails designs that had served soldiers so well in the field. This Wittnauer is a direct descendant of that design ethos. Its entire purpose is clear and immediate legibility. The dial features a classic 24-hour scale, with large, bold Arabic numerals for the primary hours and a smaller inner track for military time. This was a critical feature for pilots, soldiers, and anyone who required unambiguous timekeeping.

This particular example is a true vintage survivor, brimming with authentic charm. The all-stainless steel case has a classic, utilitarian profile with drilled lugs that make strap changes a breeze. The dial has aged beautifully, developing a warm, even patina across its surface that gives it a fantastic depth. The original lume in the bold, blued steel hands has darkened over the decades to a deep, textured khaki, a tell-tale sign of originality that collectors prize. Powered by the reliable Calibre 11ES manually-wound movement, and protected by an anti-magnetic dust cover, this watch was truly built to last.