The B-Uhr , short for Beobachtungsuhr or Observer, is another iconic military watch style that was supplied to German Luftwaffe during World War II.
Like the American-made A-11, the B-Uhr was manufactured by several cooperating German and Swiss companies, namely: IWC, ALS, Wempe, Lacher & Co (Laco), and Walter Storz (Stowa).
Available in two primary configurations (A and B), this B-dial features a shorter hour hand aligned with the inner circle of the dial and a unique triangular marker at 12. The B-Uhr was an essential tool for Luftwaffe navigators, and it’s functional design provides a historical reference for many modern pilot watches.
It’s massive 55mm diameter gray varnished brass case is near immaculate with very little to no defects and the FL 23883 markings on the side are sharp. The “FL” stands for Flight and the first two digits, “23” stands for navigation, and “883” was a code assigned by the German Testing Office for Aeronautics.
The Case back is in the same condition and the inside is printed with the type, device and movement number, stock no. and the producer’s name.
The large onion-shaped crown is in the same blemish free condition, it’s huge size was to ensure the navigators could also operate the watches without taking off their gloves.
The dial is also in excellent shape with strong printing on the large Arabic numerals and minute and second indicators. The strong radium (226Ra) paint used for its for luminescence properties has remained very much intact. The hour, minute and second hands were also coated with the radioactive paint.
Before being delivered, every single watch had to be tested and given operating certification by the German Naval Observatory. The fine adjustment of each watch had to be conducted in 6 positions and at 3 varying temperatures. The watches were regulated as navigation watches and individually tested for chronometer-quality in Gersundbrunnen, near Glashütte.
Manufacturer: Lacher&Co
Year: 1940s
Model Name: B-Uhr
Material: Grey Varnished brass
Calibre: Rolex 1215
Bracelet/Strap: Original Tan leather Oversized strap
Case Size: 55mm
Accessories: n/a
We do our best to ensure that all our watches are exactly as described. In the event that the watch operates outside of the listed specifications, the Auction house will only accept full returns.
Due to the nature of vintage timepieces we cannot guarantee water resistance. Pre-Owned timepieces may require servicing to perform to specification unless it has been specified. We provide a 24hr/Accuracy reading for reference purposes only.