IWC. A very rare oversized German military stainless steel manual wind observation wristwatch with hack seconds
Date: Circa 1942
Movement: Jewelled manual wind, No.1014200
Dial: Black, luminous Arabic numerals, luminous outer minute divisions with 5 minute markers, blued steel sword hands with luminous inserts, centre seconds
Case: Polished round, snap on back, band engraved FL23883, No.1033600
Strap/Bracelet: Associated brown leather
Buckle/Clasp: Associated steel buckle
Signed: Case
Size: 55mm
Footnotes:
Examples of the current lot were delivered to the German Air Force as early as 1940 during the Battle of Britain. The Grosse Fliegeruhr was robust, accurate and most importantly highly legible. Only 1200 pieces were produced (movement numbers between 1.013.801 and 1.015.000) with 1000 destined for the Luftwaffe. The remaining 200 movements were used in English deck watches. The watch is being offered on behalf of the family of Captain Joseph Buchner R.A.O.C. who owned the watch.

Movement: Runs when wound
Dial: Small losses and discolouration to luminous markers commensurate with age
Hands: Tarnishing throughout and discolouration to luminous inserts commensurate with age
Glass: Prominent scratches throughout, small crack by 6, build up of service debris to the outer edge
Case: Surface scratches and nicks throughout commensurate with age, opening marks in places, would benefit from a light clean
Strap/Bracelet: Used and worn in places
Buckle/Clasp: Lightly tarnished, would benefit from a light clean

We do not test any watches for their accuracy and as such timekeeping cannot be guaranteed.

We advise that if you are bidding on a watch, that you or your agents are completely satisfied with the condition of the lot. We recommend that all watches are serviced and polished after the sale as they are handled throughout the viewing period. Please note that although Bonhams endeavour to include reference to any replacement parts within our Condition Reports we cannot confirm that each individual element of the watch is original or that, if replaced, the replacement has been made using original manufacturer's parts.

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