Today I am presenting something really special - an extremely rare observer watch made by Vacheron & Constantin for the German Kriegsmarine in WW2. This is an exceptional piece of history as it is probably one of the last fully original, not denazified examples still existing. I have never seen a second one not demilitarized for the German Kriegsmarine like mine in over 20 years of collecting. But I have seen several made for the British military (Hydrographic Service). The Geneva based company is one of the oldest in Switzerland and started in 1755. This watch measures 58.5 mm wide and 16 mm deep and has blued steel hands, a classic enamel dial with black Arabic numerals, the "Vacheron & Constantin" trademark and underneath "GENÈVE". The case is double hinged and sterling silver (925) made. The movement has a swan neck regulator, high quality wolf teeth winding wheels which is most associated with exclusive timepieces made by Patek Philippe and other expensive brands. The nickel bridge movement has the serial number "438802". The movement is also inscribed with the famous Vacheron & Constantin trademark, the Maltese cross and "GENÈVE" again. On the back of the case an early Kriegsmarine eagle, the letter "M" for "Marine" (navy), the inventory number "6441" and the quality classification "I. Kl." (1st class) by the Deutsche Seewarte. This watch is also shown in Konrad Knirim's reference book on German military timepieces (2002), page 235.

Regards, Florian

Small addition by Vacheron & Constantin: "Our Heritage department has confirmed the date of production of the above model as 1942."