Selza WW2 Pattern German Navy (Kriegsmarine) 17 Jewel Hand Wound Military Pocket Watch

Selza Military Pocket Watch – WW2 Kriegsmarine Pattern

SKU: SELZ/PWKM

Military pocket watches, along with their civilian counterparts, have experienced a significant resurgence in popularity in recent years. Historically, pocket watches were widely used in both land-based and naval applications. During the Second World War, they were carried extensively by German, British, and American forces.

One of the primary reasons for their popularity was practicality. Wristwatches of the period were generally quite small, with most measuring only around 32mm in diameter. By comparison, a pocket watch with a dial approaching 50mm offered far greater legibility, particularly in low-light conditions or when worn with gloves.

This classic WW2-pattern Selza* military pocket watch, featuring a subsidiary seconds dial, is based on the designs commonly supplied to the German Kriegsmarine (German Navy) during the Second World War. A characteristic feature of many Kriegsmarine-issued timepieces was the use of the initials "K.M." on the dial, signifying Kriegsmarine. Unlike watches produced for other branches of the German armed forces, which frequently featured black dials, naval watches often utilised light-coloured dials in cream or white for improved visibility.

The watch is closely based on an original Selza wartime design. While surviving examples have become increasingly scarce and command high prices among collectors, this modern recreation remains remarkably faithful to the appearance of the original. Externally, it is almost indistinguishable from its wartime predecessor, while incorporating several practical improvements, including a hardened mineral crystal offering significantly greater scratch resistance and durability than the acrylic crystals typically fitted during the 1940s, while retaining the classic appearance of the original wartime watches.

Power is provided by a traditional 17-jewel hand-wound mechanical movement, preserving the character and operation of the original watches while delivering dependable everyday reliability.

During the war, Selza, together with Siegerin, was among the principal suppliers of pocket watches to the Kriegsmarine. Both manufacturers also produced watches for the Luftwaffe and Wehrmacht. Although there were numerous German military watch manufacturers during the period, many have since disappeared, leaving only a handful of surviving examples and brands recognised by collectors today.

Military watch enthusiasts have compiled an extensive reference list of wartime German watch manufacturers, which can be viewed here:

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

This particular model features a robust stainless steel case manufactured from military-grade 316L stainless steel and is supplied complete with a matching chain.

Specifications

• Diameter: 47.5mm
• Length Including Crown: 58mm
• Thickness: 14mm
• Crystal Diameter: 40mm
• Crystal Type: Hardened Mineral Crystal
• Movement: Cal. 9011-PI
• Jewels: 17
• Beat Rate: 18,000 A/h
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Caseback: Stainless Steel
• Luminosity: Luminova
• Included: Pocket Watch Chain
• Packaging: Original Presentation Box
• Guarantee: 2-Year Factory Guarantee

Aeschbach are factory-authorised distributors for Selza watches.

Essential Winding Instructions and Guidelines

To wind the watch from a completely unwound state to fully wound requires approximately 30 turns of the crown. Most manually wound watches require 40 or more turns, so this movement requires somewhat fewer than average.

When fully wound, the watch offers a power reserve of approximately 36 hours.

For owners who wind the watch daily, the exact number of turns is generally less critical. Since the movement will not have exhausted its power reserve after 24 hours, many users find that approximately 25 turns each day is sufficient to maintain optimal performance.

As with all manually wound watches, it is important not to force the crown once resistance is felt. Doing so may place unnecessary strain on the winding mechanism and mainspring.

Many owners naturally develop a feel for the optimum winding routine within the first few days of ownership, and slight variations in the number of turns will have little effect on day-to-day performance provided the watch is wound regularly.

Important Note on Overwinding

Overwinding occurs when a manually wound movement is wound beyond its intended stopping point. Excessive force can damage the winding mechanism or mainspring and may result in costly repairs.

This caution applies primarily to hand-wound mechanical watches. Automatic watches generally incorporate mechanisms designed to prevent damage from continued winding during normal use.

Following the recommended winding procedures will help ensure many years of reliable operation and enjoyment.

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.