The “Dirty Dozen” refers to a group of twelve military watches produced for the British Ministry of Defense (MoD) during World War II. These watches were built to rigorous military specifications and were distributed to British soldiers. The name “Dirty Dozen” is a collector’s nickname inspired by the 1967 war film of the same name. One of the twelve manufacturers involved was Record Watch Company, a prominent Swiss watchmaker at the time.

This Record is one of the so called ‘Dirty Dozen’ collection of British Military watches, but then if you’re reading this you most likely already know that. An honest example of what has clearly seen some service and has been used as a military tool watch. Rugged, marked, scratches in places with hands that have discoloured.

Not the rarest of the DD with around 25,000 thought to have been made, however, it is a special version of the Record as both the case back and lugs show the same number in 499 – meaning the caseback is original to the watch.

Created as a tool watch it would have been serviced routinely through its working life, produced around the early to mid 1940’s. Record was one of the 12 appointed Swiss Watch brands to have a contract with the British MOD to produce Wristwatches for the forces.

Mechanical manual wind movement, calibre 022k. 18mm Lug width, we have chosen to pair up with a grey textile strap although this can be changed upon request.

35/36 steel case, black dial with bold hour markers the dial stamped with the MOD broad arrow and the manufacture name which shows the ‘O’ in Record has faded away. Case has been well worn and clearly shows battle scars.

Having passed through our workshop running at around 25 seconds per day with a healthy amplitude which is fine for a watch such as this from the 1940’s.

Our View – A great, honest, rugged example with all matching numbers in great working order.