Aeschbach Classic 1950s/60s Pattern Field Watch with a 24 Jewel Automatic Movement

SKU Code: ABACH/MKII/12

This Aeschbach MKII field watch is a modern recreation of the classic 1950s NATO specification watches originally produced under the British Ministry of Defence reference 6B/346 Mk XI. While remaining faithful to the appearance and character of these historic military watches, it incorporates modern materials and engineering to deliver significantly improved reliability, durability, and performance.

At the heart of the watch is a proven 24-jewel NH35A automatic movement featuring a 41-hour power reserve and hacking seconds function, allowing precise synchronisation of the watch. The movement is housed within a brushed stainless steel case inspired by the military watches of the 1950s and 1960s. Each case is manufactured and hand-finished in Zurich to ensure exceptional quality and attention to detail.

Modern military organisations generally no longer procure watches to the standards that were once commonplace during the mid-20th century. Historically, armed forces around the world purchased watches from renowned manufacturers such as Rolex, IWC, Omega, and Longines. While such procurement practices are largely a thing of the past, there remains strong demand for military-pattern watches built to a higher specification. The MKIII was developed to satisfy that demand without compromise.

The watch is fitted with a premium scratch and shatter-resistant sapphire crystal featuring an anti-reflective coating for outstanding legibility and durability. A screw-down crown and screw-down caseback provide enhanced protection against dust and moisture, contributing to the watch's impressive 100-metre (330-foot) water resistance.

Combining classic military styling with modern engineering, the MKII offers an ideal balance of heritage, reliability, and everyday practicality.

Specifications

• Case Diameter: 39 mm (excluding crown), 42.5 mm (including crown)
• Lug-to-Lug Length: 46.5 mm
• Case Thickness: 11.3 mm
• Weight: 73 g
• Water Resistance: 100 m / 330 ft
• Movement: NH35A 24-Jewel Automatic Movement
• Power Reserve: 41 Hours
• Hacking Function: Yes
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Crystal: Scratch and Shatter-Resistant Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating
• Crown: Screw-Down
• Caseback: Screw-Down
• Strap Width: 20 mm
• Strap: NATO Webbing Strap

Why Sapphire Crystal?

One of the most common questions we receive concerns the advantages of sapphire crystal over conventional mineral glass.

Synthetic sapphire is widely regarded as the finest material available for watch crystals due to its exceptional hardness and resistance to scratching and impact damage. These qualities make it particularly attractive to military personnel, security professionals, law enforcement officers, and outdoor enthusiasts, who represent a significant proportion of our customer base.

In cases where watches are returned with damaged crystals, the overwhelming majority involve mineral glass, even when hardened mineral crystals are used. Sapphire crystals undergo specialised heat treatment to eliminate internal stresses, resulting in superior strength and durability. In addition, they are fitted with anti-reflective coatings that improve clarity and reduce glare in bright conditions.

Although sapphire crystal is more expensive than mineral glass, its exceptional durability and long-term resistance to wear make it the preferred choice for premium-quality watches and professional-use timepieces.

Historical Context: Aeschbach Watches

Aeschbach, established in 1923, was one of many Swiss and German manufacturers producing military watches during WWII for the Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine, and Luftwaffe. Collecting these historical timepieces can be challenging due to the sheer number of manufacturers involved, with over 100 suppliers identified to date. A group of military watch enthusiasts has compiled a nearly comprehensive list of these manufacturers, which can be accessed on their website under "WWII German Watches." Contributions to fill in any gaps in their research are welcome. See https://military-watches.net/ww2-german-watches

Historical details specifically regarding Aeschbach watches can also be seen at this Link https://drive.proton.me/urls/0RR77Z1R8W#pqREjqba4M1G

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.