1 in stock

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

This Wittnauer military-style watch from the 1950s is a classic example of a utilitarian mid-century field watch. Powered by the Wittnauer Caliber 11ES, a robust 15-jewel manual-wind movement, it was built for reliability. The watch is housed in a chrome-plated case with a durable stainless steel snap-on back and features practical drilled lugs for easy strap changes. Its defining characteristic is the original 24-hour dial, which has developed a rich, even patina over its creamy surface. The highly legible layout includes a primary 12-hour track with large Arabic numerals, a secondary 24-hour scale, and original pencil hands with aged lume.

1 in stock

1 in stock

General

Brand

Manufactured

Switzerland

Department

Men

Dial Color

Cream

Case

Case Shape

Round

Bezel

Fixed

Case Material

Stainless Steel

Case Width

31mm

Case Height

39mm

Strap / Bracelet

Lug Width

16mm

Strap Material

Stainless Steel

Strap Color

Silver

Clasp

Clip

Max Wrist Size

8.5"

Movement

Movement

Manual Wind

Caliber

Wittnauer 11ES

Accuracy

>20 seconds

The movement showed a daily accuracy deviation ranging from 0 to 20 seconds across six positions.

Extras

Warranty Every watch sold by Ottuhr comes with a 1-year mechanical warranty. Select pieces may also include additional guarantees or extended coverage.

1-Year Ottuhr Warranty

Original Box

No

Original Papers

No

Overview

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.

Timing: The watch has been measured with a timegrapher at six different positions. The rate, amplitude, and beat error are within acceptable ranges.

Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, etc are working as expected.

Integrity: The movement shows no signs of damage, rust, or corrosion, with all components appearing clean and well-maintained.

Authenticity: Each timepiece is evaluated and authenticated in-house. This watch is guaranteed to be correct to its manufacturer and time period.

Warranty: This timepiece includes a 1-year mechanical warranty, activated upon the date of purchase. 

Shipping: This timepeice includes complimentary insured shipping within all 50 states. 

Returns: If, for any reason, you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return the product for a full refund within 30 days from the date you received or signed for the item.

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