German Military Watches

World War II German Military Issue Service Watches

Military watches issued by the Unified Armed Forces of Germany (Wehrmacht) were manufactured by many German and Swiss watchmakers contracted by the government. The Heer (army), Luftwaffe (air force), and Kriegsmarine (naval) among other German organizations determined their contract specifications for their watches.

Most of these watches were manually wound, shock and water resistant, had screw-on stainless steel casebacks, and sometimes had nickel or steel watch cases. Dial faces were usually black with luminous radium numbers, and its hands had a subseconds dial. Watch case diameters usually ranged at 34mm. Variations between German and Swiss manufactured watches were commonly present, including snap back case for German-made watches.

Some Swiss and German watch manufacturers contracted by the German government included:

The D codes found stamped on the watches made by the Swiss were another main difference between German and Swiss made military watches. Generally, these codes were believed to stand for "Dienstuhr "Service Watch". These codes referred to the service branch that contracted for the watches. Imported contract watches were required to have these markings for contract documentation.

Most of the German made military watches issued by the Wehrmacht did not have these codes. It is speculated that the German watch manufacturers were not required to mark these codes as they were carefully inspected and regulated by the German government.

Wehrmacht issued military watches had their serial numbers recorded on the service member's pay book. The service members were expected to return the watches upon discharge.

Wristwatches during that time were considered tools of the trade rather than fashionable luxury items. Lower enlisted ranks were generally not issued watches. This is because their duties did not require one and they could not afford it.

Here is a sample list of Wehrmacht issued military watches:


WatchManufacturerManufactured Date
Para Bruchsicher 782 SPara Germany1938
Acacia S.A GeneveAcacia S.A Geneva Switzerland1938
PhenixPhenix Switzerland1938
Mimo D6676HMIMO Switzerland1938
Revue SportRevue Sport1938
RectaRecta Germany1938
BuhrePaul Buhre1938
HelmaHelma Switzerland1938
Silvana Wide LugsSilvana Switzerland1939
Grana Wide LugsGrana Switzerland1939
HeliosHelios Switzerland1939
Silvana2Silvana1939

Modern German Military Watch Manufacturers

Today, modern military watch manufacturers continue the tradition of excellence to produce finely crafted and accurate timepieces. This is done while combining the products with innovative technologies to match the demands of the toughest conditions. Below is an incomplete list of modern military watch manufacturers:

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