MWC 1940s/1950s "Dirty Dozen" Pattern Military Watch with 31-Jewel Swiss Sellita SW260 Automatic Movement and Domed Vintage Box Sapphire Crystal

MWC 1940s/1950s "Dirty Dozen" Pattern Military Watch with 31-Jewel Swiss Sellita SW260 Automatic Movement and Domed Vintage Box Sapphire CrystalSKU Code: W10 445 25CH This classic 31 jewel automatic MWC military watch is inspired by original British military designs from the 1940s and 1950s. It is powered by a Swiss Sellita SW260 automatic movement and features a small subsidiary seconds dial, staying true to the proportions and layout of the original service watches from the era. While the external appearance closely follows the historical models, the watch has been discreetly upgraded with

SKU Code: W10/445-25CH

This classic 31-jewel automatic MWC military watch is inspired by original British military designs from the 1940s and 1950s. It is powered by a Swiss Sellita SW260 automatic movement and features a small subsidiary seconds dial, staying true to the proportions and layout of the original service watches from the era.

While the external appearance closely follows the historical models, the watch has been discreetly upgraded with modern materials and engineering. Water resistance has been increased to 100 m (330 ft), and the watch is fitted with a shatter- and scratch-resistant sapphire box crystal, significantly improving durability while preserving the vintage aesthetic.

Crystal & Movement

Inspired by the domed acrylic crystals of the 1950s, the raised sapphire box crystal delivers a classic profile while offering exceptional scratch resistance—second only to diamond. Unlike acrylic, sapphire remains clear and unmarked over time, enhancing long-term legibility and resilience.

The original hand-wound movement has been replaced with a modern automatic calibre, offering the convenience of self-winding while still allowing manual winding if preferred. This upgrade improves reliability and usability without compromising authenticity.

Case & Dial

The watch features a heavy satin-finished stainless steel case, manufactured from military-grade 316L stainless steel. Additional details include a screw-down crown, hacking seconds, and a black dial with luminous markings for excellent visibility in low-light conditions.

It is supplied on a historically accurate 1950s-style canvas strap, closely matching those used on original service watches.

Historical Context

The final image shows the original twelve military watches produced by manufacturers such as Buren, Cyma, Eterna, Grana, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Lemania, Longines, IWC, Omega, Record, Timor, and Vertex.
Although MWC was founded later in 1974 and was not one of the original manufacturers, this model faithfully captures the spirit, proportions, and purpose of those iconic timepieces.

Specifications

• Case Diameter: 36.5 mm (excluding crown), 39 mm (including crown)
• Lug-to-Lug: 43 mm
• Thickness: 12.5 mm
• Lugs: Drilled
• Dial Colour: Black
• Case Material: 316L stainless steel
• Caseback: 316L stainless steel
• Crown: Screw-down locking crown
• Water Resistance: 100 m / 330 ft / 10 ATM
• Movement: Swiss Sellita SW260, 31 jewels
• Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
• Crystal: Sapphire box crystal with anti-reflective coating
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Serial Number: Engraved on caseback
• Strap: 18 mm 1950s-pattern canvas
• Packaging: Supplied in presentation box
• Guarantee: 24 months

* Photo Credit: Watches Of Knightsbridge

For anyone interested in the history of the Dirty Dozen these links show the 12 original watches and explain the history.

The Dirty Dozen 1

The Dirty Dozen 2

The Dirty Dozen 3

Benefits of Sapphire Crystal

Many customers ask about the advantages of sapphire crystal compared to traditional plexiglass. Synthetic sapphire is widely regarded as the superior material for watch crystals due to its exceptional strength and resistance to both scratching and shattering. This makes it particularly well suited to military and security personnel, police officers, and active outdoor enthusiasts—groups that account for over 70% of our customers.

Traditional plexiglass (plastic/acrylic) crystals were far more susceptible to scratches and cracking and also limited the overall water resistance of the watch. By contrast, sapphire crystals are heat-treated to remove internal stresses, significantly improving durability and long-term performance. Each crystal is then finished with two layers of anti-reflective coating to enhance clarity and legibility.

While sapphire crystal is more expensive to manufacture, it is typically found only on higher-specification watches and represents a substantial upgrade in both performance and longevity.