ABOUT THIS WATCH

During WWII, the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) published a set a specifications for Swiss watchmakers to produce the first non-civilian watches for the military designated as WWW, or Watch Wrist Waterproof. Twelve companies were able to meet the MOD’s criteria, collectively producing upwards of 150,000 watches before the end of the war. Collectors later came to call this group of watches “The Dirty Dozen” named after the 1967 movie about a group of ragtag misfits sent on one last suicide mission against the Nazis. Cyma alone produced around 20k units which makes it one of the more common versions of the Dirty Dozen behind Omega and Record. While not rare by any means, the Cyma is in my opinion however the best one of the twelve.

It’s a bold statement, as all of them are pretty amazing watches in their own right. But what makes the Cyma so attractive is its combination of size, legibility, durability and no nonsense good looks. It’s really the only one of the dozen with all of these features (except maybe the Longines) with it’s large 38mm stainless steel case, large crown, and large lume plots making it the most wearable watch in modern terms. On the wrist, it’s an absolute joy to wear.

This particular one is a fantastically satisfying example with it’s sharp case, tropical dial, original crown, and full yellow lume plots and hands. The lume on these watches should originally be radium, but after the use of radium was outlawed the British MOD relumed watches needing repair with tritium plots. Because of the relume, I would say this watch isn’t for you if you were trying to collect every original example of The Dirty Dozen. However, if you just want a killer and attractive piece of history on your wrist then get this watch. If you’re as much of a stickler for sharp condition as I am, you will enjoy this piece especially since it’s damn near impossible to find any military watch this old with these fine of looks.

Paired with a detachable vintage rivet bracelet which is equally as difficult to find, this watch is freshly serviced and ready to be on the wrist of someone who wants a truly outstanding and unique vintage military watch. Also included is a beautiful custom tan leather strap designed for fixed lug watches such as this.

WATCH SPECS

Maker: Cyma
Model: WWW
Reference: N/A
Year: 1945
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 38mm diameter; 12mm thickness with crystal
Crystal: Plexiglass
Lume: Tritium
Caliber: Cyma Cal. 234 manual wind
Bracelet/Strap: Detachable rivet bracelet + custom French calf strap
Lug Width: 18mm
Box/Papers: N/A