Aeschbach WW2 Pattern German Airforce (Luftwaffe) 17 Jewel Hand Wound Military Pocket Watch

SKU: ABACH/RLMPW

Aeschbach WW2 Pattern Military Pocket Watch

Military pocket watches, together with their civilian counterparts, have seen a remarkable resurgence in popularity in recent years. Historically, they were widely used in land, naval, and aviation applications. During the Second World War, pocket watches were issued by armed forces on all sides, including the German Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine, and Luftwaffe, as well as British and American military personnel.

One of the main reasons for their widespread use was their superior legibility. At a time when most wristwatches measured only around 32mm in diameter, pocket watches typically measured close to 50mm, making them far easier to read quickly under operational conditions.

This classic WW2-pattern Aeschbach military pocket watch, featuring a subsidiary seconds dial, is based on the designs used by the German Luftwaffe and issued under the authority of the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM – German Air Ministry). These watches were generally issued to aircrew on a mission-by-mission basis and returned to the quartermaster upon completion of their duties.

The watch is closely modelled on an original Aeschbach design from the wartime period. While genuine examples have become increasingly scarce and highly sought after by collectors, this modern recreation remains remarkably faithful to the appearance of the original models.

Internally, the watch is powered by a traditional 17-jewel hand-wound movement. Externally, it benefits from modern improvements, including a domed glass crystal which offers significantly greater scratch resistance and durability than the acrylic crystals commonly fitted to military watches during the 1940s.

The original wartime pocket watches supplied to the Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine, and Luftwaffe were produced by numerous Swiss and German manufacturers, including Aeschbach, a company originally founded in 1923 and still operating today.

Military watch enthusiasts have compiled a comprehensive list of wartime manufacturers, which can be viewed here:

https://military-watches.net/ww2-german-watches

This pocket watch features a solid 316L military-grade stainless steel case and a traditional subsidiary seconds display, maintaining the classic appearance of the original wartime designs.

Specifications

• Diameter: 47.5mm
• Length Including Crown: 58mm
• Thickness: 14mm
• Crystal Diameter: 40mm
• Crystal Type: Domed Glass
• Movement: Cal. 9011-PI
• Jewels: 17
• Frequency: 18,000 A/h
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Caseback: Stainless Steel
• Luminosity: Luminova
• Chain: Included
• Packaging: Supplied in Original Presentation Box
• Guarantee: 2-Year Factory Warranty

Essential Winding Instructions

To wind the watch from empty to fully wound requires approximately 30 turns of the crown. This is slightly fewer than many traditional hand-wound watches, which often require 40 or more turns.

When fully wound, the movement provides an average power reserve of approximately 36 hours.

Owners who wear the watch daily and wind it at roughly the same time each day may find that fewer turns are required. Some users report that approximately 25 turns every 24 hours is sufficient because the movement will still retain a substantial amount of stored power from the previous day.

As with all manually wound watches, it is important to avoid excessive winding force once the watch is fully wound.

Important

Do not attempt to continue winding the watch after it has reached its natural stopping point. Excessive force can place unnecessary stress on the winding mechanism and mainspring and may result in damage.

Unlike manual-wind movements, automatic watches are generally protected against overwinding through the use of a slipping mainspring mechanism. Therefore, the guidance above applies specifically to hand-wound watches such as this model.

Following the recommended winding procedure will help ensure many years of reliable service and preserve the long-term performance of the movement. 

Tracked Mail

Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

Express Courier (UPS or FedEx)

Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
UK (UPS/DPD): £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

Shipping costs may vary slightly depending on parcel weight and dimensions. Final rates are shown at checkout. The prices above apply to approximately 85% of orders.

If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within 14 days of receipt. Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in new, resalable condition. Returns cannot be accepted for worn items, removed protective films, or any signs of use beyond normal inspection.

To request a return authorization number, please use the form at the link below.